THE
COMPLETE WORKS OF SONSHI.
I.
FIRST PRINCIPLES.
The words of Son the Master:—
To all nations War is a great matter. On War, death or life depend : it is the means of existence, or path to destruction.
Therefore it must be diligently studied.
Now, in war there are five important matters. The first is called The Way;[1]the second, Heaven; the third, Earth; the fourth, the Leader; the fifth, Law.
The Way or the proper conduct of man. If the ruling authority be upright, the people are united:[2] fearless of danger, their lives are at the service of their Lord.
Heaven. Light and darkness;[3] heat and cold; and the change of time and season.
Earth. Distance; extent ; strategic position.
- ↑ The five virtues of humanity, righteousness, politeness, wisdom and faith are known as The Way.
- ↑ Mencius speaking of war says that an united people is the most important essential of victory.
- ↑ The Chinese regard natural phenomena as possessing either a masculine positive or light principle or a feminine negative or dark principle. In this connection rain, mist, wind, are included.
