Synopsis
Chapter 2 of Sun Tzu's Art of War on the cost of warfare, emphasizing swift victory and living off the enemy.
Original Text
Sun Tzu said: In the operations of war, where there are a thousand swift chariots, as many heavy chariots, and a hundred thousand mail-clad soldiers, with provisions enough to carry them a thousand li, the expenditure at home and at the front will reach the amount of a thousand ounces of silver per day.
Overview
"Waging War" examines the enormous financial cost of military campaigns and argues for swift victory. Sun Tzu calculated that an army of 100,000 requires a thousand ounces of silver per day — prolonged warfare drains both military strength and national wealth.
Core Principles
First, war is enormously expensive. Swift victory is essential. "In war, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns." Prolonged conflict leads to dull weapons and dampened spirits.
Second, logistics should rely on "feeding off the enemy." "Bring war material from home, but forage on the enemy. Thus the army will have food enough for its needs."
Third, war impoverishes the state. Detailed analysis of the financial drain on both civilians and the treasury.
Famous Quotes
| Quote | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Speed is the essence of war | Swift victory matters more than clever delay |
| In war, let your great object be victory | War values swift triumph, not prolonged struggle |
| Feed on the enemy | Take supplies from the enemy's territory |
| The general who understands war is the arbiter of the people's fate | A skilled commander holds the destiny of the nation |
Modern Application
The principle of "swift victory" is widely applied in modern business — launching products quickly and capturing markets before competitors respond.
References
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Art_of_War
2.古诗文网: https://www.gushiwen.cn/ - Baidu Baike: https://baike.baidu.com/item/孙子兵法
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