Chapter 19
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:
Courage – He cannot be intimidated.
Wisdom – He cannot be misled.
Benevolence – He cherishes his soldiers.
Integrity – He never deceives others.
Loyalty – He remains unwavering in devotion.
The ten flaws of a general are:
Brave but reckless with life – Provoke him to anger.
Impatient and hasty – Exhaust him through prolonged conflict.
Greedy for profit – Bribe him with riches.
Benevolent to a fault – Harass him into complacency.
Wise but timid – Intimidate him with threats.
Trusting to naivety – Deceive him with lies.
Upright yet cruel – Humiliate him publicly.
Strategic but indecisive – Ambush him unexpectedly.
Strong-willed and arrogant – Outmaneuver him with cunning.
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!”