The Foundation of Benevolence

In ancient times, to found government on benevolence and govern through righteousness was called the upright Way. When the upright Way could not be carried out, one turned to expedient measures. Expedient measures come from war, not from smooth-tongued mediators. Thus, to kill the wicked in order to protect the people is a permissible killing; to attack a state while caring for its people is a permissible attack; to use war to end war is a permissible war. Therefore, benevolence draws people near; righteousness wins their glad allegiance; wisdom gives them someone to rely on; courage inspires them to face danger; trustworthiness earns their confidence. At home, to be loved by the people is the foundation for holding the land; abroad, to possess a deterrent force is the reliance for waging war. The principles of war: do not disturb the farming seasons; do not send troops when the people are afflicted by epidemics—this is to care for one’s own people. Do not attack a state while it is in mourning; do not launch a punitive expedition in a year of famine—this is to care......