Lesson from “The art of war” by Sun Tzu
The Art of War is an ancient Chinese military treatise which was written by the General Sun Tzu in the 6th century B.C. It is considered as one of the best battle strategy text of all times and has influenced military thinking, business tactics, legal strategy, lifestyles and beyond.
In ancient China, King Helu the king of the state of Wu from 514 to 496 BC read the chapters from the book and wanted to test the theory presented with soldiers especially women. Sun Tzu agreed to it.
Sun Tzu was given few lady soldiers who are basically concubines. He divided them into two groups and appointed a leader for each group. He then asked the ladies that they know the difference between front and back as well as, right hand and left hand. The girls replied that they know the difference very well. He told them to follow exactly what he says.
“When I say “Eyes front,” you must look straight ahead. When I say “Left turn,” you must face towards your left hand. When I say “Right turn,” you must face towards your right hand. When I say “About turn,” you must face right round towards your back”.
To the sound of drums, he gave the order “Right turn.” But the girls only burst out laughing. So Sun Tzu said,
If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, then the general is to blame.
Again the girls confirmed that they understood. So he started drilling them again, and this time gave the order “Left turn,”. But the girls burst into laughter again. So Sun Tzu said,
If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, the general is to blame. But if his orders ARE clear, and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fault of their officers.
So saying, he ordered the leaders of the two groups to be beheaded. By seeing this, the king came and asked Sun Tzu not to behead them as they learnt their lessons. Sun Tzu replied that
“Having once received His Majesty’s commission to be the general of his forces, there are certain commands of His Majesty which, acting in that capacity, I am unable to accept”.
Accordingly, he had the two leaders beheaded, and straightway installed the pair next in order as leaders in their place. Then he followed the drill once more. This time all the girls followed the command with perfect accuracy and precision. Then he informed the king that the soldiers are ready now for inspection. But the King replied that he doesn’t want to come down now and inspect the troops. Thereupon Sun Tzu said
“The King is only fond of words, and cannot translate them into deeds.”
After that, the king saw that Sun Tzu was one who knew how to handle an army and finally appointed him general.
The above is an excerpt from “The Art of War” by “Sun Tzu” and you can get from Amazon.
