Long Tao: Nóng Qì (Agricultural Tools)

King Wu asked tai gong:"When the world is at peace and the state knows no war, can we neglect the preparation of field and siege weapons? Can defenses and fortifications remain unbuilt?" tai gong replied:"All tools of war and defense are rooted in the tools of daily life and labor. Plows and hoes can serve as barricades and caltrops; carts and carriages become ramparts and shields. Farming tools like rakes and spades double as spears and halberds; straw cloaks, umbrellas, and bamboo hats transform into armor and shields. Pickaxes, shovels, axes, and mortars function as siege engines. Oxen and horses transport provisions; chickens and dogs mark time and guard. The cloth woven by women becomes battle flags; men’s skill in leveling land aids in breaching walls. The methods of clearing fields in spring mirror tactics against chariots and cavalry; summer weeding parallels infantry combat. Autumn’s harvest stockpiles provisions; winter’s full granaries sustain prolonged sieges. Village alliances form wartime units; local leaders become officers. Village boundaries mark......