Key Concepts in Chinese Thought and Culture

KEY CONCEPTS

TERMBASES

Troop Should Charge Forward Like the Flow of Water.

This military concept was formulated by Sunzi, the ancient military strategist. It means that in directing a battle, one must not adhere to a predetermined plan. Depending on the specific situation, rapid adjustments must be made to make the best use of one's strengths and to avoid one's weaknesses, just as water assumes different shapes as its flow follows the lie of the land. This is what is known today as using flexible tactics and strategies to gain the initiative on the battlefield.

CITATION

Commanding troops should be like the flow of water. Water runs from a high point to a low one. Troops should avoid attacking where the enemy defense is strong but instead attack where its defense is weak. Just as the flow of water is determined by terrain, war fighting should be based on the assessment of the enemy’s situation to secure victory. Hence there is no set formation for troops and no set shape for water. The one who can win by understanding the enemy’s situation can be called a godlike commander. (The Art of War)

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KEY CONCEPTS

Troop Should Charge Forward Like the Flow of Water.

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