NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — Sun Tzu, the famous military strategist of the Eastern Zhou era in Chinese history, is considered one of the greatest military minds in history. His famous work, The Art of War, has stood the test of time and continues to inspire leaders in various fields. However, there is a little-known story of Sun Tzu that sheds light on his unique approach to leadership and desire to prove his skill as a general.
Challenge
King Wu, Sun Tzu’s potential employer, decided to test the commander’s abilities. He ordered Sun Tzu to train his harem of 180 concubines, turning it into a capable army. This unusual request provided an opportunity for Sun Tzu to demonstrate his theories of leadership and command.
Formation
Sun Tzu divided the concubines into two companies and appointed the king’s two favorite concubines as chief officers. Each officer was given command of his own company, and Sun Tzu was in charge of the entire operation.
Failed Command
When the assembled companies appeared before the king, Sun Tzu ordered them to face the right. However, the concubines, amused by the idea of ​​​​turning into soldiers, did not listen and giggled among themselves. This disobedience could be regarded as a failure of the concubines, but Sun Tzu took full responsibility for the lack of obedience upon himself.
Taking responsibility
Sun Tzu turned to the king and explained that it was his own fault that the orders were not understood. As a commander, he considered it his duty to ensure clear communication and understanding between his troops. By accepting the blame for his disobedience, Sun Tzu demonstrated his humility and commitment to self-improvement as a leader.
Consequences
To prove his point, Sun Tzu ordered the execution of two favorite concubines who led each company. The king protested heatedly, because these were his favorites, but Sun Tzu prepared an answer. He stated that if the soldiers understood the order but did not obey, then it was the fault of the officers. Moreover, as a general, he is obliged to carry out his mission, even if it means going against the wishes of his master.
Transformations
After the execution of the officers, new leaders were chosen from the harem to replace them. Sun Tzu repeated his order a third time, and this time he was obeyed without hesitation or questioning. The harem was turned into an obedient fighting force.
Lesson
Sun Tzu’s demonstration with his concubines highlighted a fundamental principle of leadership: Strength in the military lies not just in physical strength or equipment, but in understanding and following orders. This lesson has resonated throughout human history and remains relevant in modern military tactics and leadership strategy.
Sun Tzu actually assembled a harem army. Sun Tzu’s wisdom was that the strength of an army does not lie in physical strength or equipment. For him, this was the result of understanding and obeying orders, which has since been used in every army.
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News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
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