Chinese Novels

Chapter 19

Long Tao: Lun Jiang (On Generalship)

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King Wu asked Tai Gong:
“What are the criteria for evaluating generals?”

 

Tai Gong replied:
“A general must embody five virtues and avoid ten flaws.”

 

King Wu asked:
“What do these entail?”

 

Tai Gong said:
The five virtues of a general are:

  1. Courage – He cannot be intimidated.

  2. Wisdom – He cannot be misled.

  3. Benevolence – He cherishes his soldiers.

  4. Integrity – He never deceives others.

  5. Loyalty – He remains unwavering in devotion.

 

The ten flaws of a general are:

  1. Brave but reckless with life – Provoke him to anger.

  2. Impatient and hasty – Exhaust him through prolonged conflict.

  3. Greedy for profit – Bribe him with riches.

  4. Benevolent to a fault – Harass him into complacency.

  5. Wise but timid – Intimidate him with threats.

  6. Trusting to naivety – Deceive him with lies.

  7. Upright yet cruel – Humiliate him publicly.

  8. Strategic but indecisive – Ambush him unexpectedly.

  9. Strong-willed and arrogant – Outmaneuver him with cunning.

  10. Weak and dependent – Manipulate him with trickery.

 

War is a matter of vital importance to the state, determining its survival or demise. The fate of the nation rests in the hands of its generals. A general serves as the pillar of the state, revered by rulers across generations. Thus, the appointment of generals demands rigorous scrutiny. Remember: in war, neither side can claim total victory or suffer total defeat. Once an army crosses the border, within ten days, either a kingdom will fall or an army will be crushed, its commanders slain.”

 

King Wu said:
“Well spoken!”

Update Time:2025-04-13 17:00:36
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