孙子兵法》与精神之战, The Art of War & the Spiritual Battle
Week 3 – 孙子兵法》与精神之战, The Art of War & the Spiritual Battle
- Martin Percy and the Kursk, Ukraine offensive
- Kursk 1943
- Sun Tzu’s impact on modern leaders
- A ChatGPT break
- Epilogue
Dr. Martin Percy and the Kursk, Ukraine offensive
In Oxford, Dr. Martyn Percy described the plethora of leadership books and asked us to name one from antiquity. I mentioned The Art of War, Sun Tzu[1] and he asked for something that Sun Tzu
taught. “Go where the enemy is not,” I replied.
This flashback came to mind as I watch the Ukrainian Army push into Kursk, Russia. In Chapter 6, Weak and Strong Points, #7 of The Art of War, Sun Tzu writes, “You can be sure of succeeding in your attacks if you only attack places which are undefended” (Kindle location 117).
While the long term impact of the offensive is currently being debated, some believe,” The Ukrainian military’s incursion into Russia’s Kursk region has had a significant impact on the entire theater of operations and will influence both Russian offensive and defensive capabilities even after the current advance on Pokrovsk is concluded, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/ukrainian-forces-invasion-of-kursk-region-1725596338.html
Go where the enemy is not.
Kursk 1943
Lost to many, is the place of Kursk as a significant battle in WWII.
The Strategic Kursk Salient – According to an article in ARMOR, Germany and Russia had reached an impasse by the winter of 1943 from Leningrad to the Black Sea. And at the center of the disputed area, a year’s worth of fighting had created a massive salient (an outward-protruding bulge of land on a battle line) approximately 150 miles from north to south and 100 miles from east to west. At the center of the salient lay the Russian city of Kursk. (https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/battle-of-kursk#the-strategic-kursk-salient)
The west has perhaps long forgotten this battle, but for both the Ukrainians and the Russians, this 81-year-old battle is probably still fresh. Hitlers last effort into Russia AND during this battle, he had to shift forces to address the Allies attack in Cicily. Aspects of history begin to repeat themselves.
Some Sun Tzu principles evident in the Kursk offensive, Surprise and Deception, Attacking the Enemy’s weakness, Diverting Enemy Resources, Morale and Psychological Impact.
In the current conflict, attack him (Russia) where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected (Kursk), these military decisions, leading to victory, must not be divulged beforehand (inform your “allies” at the last minute and give the gift of surprise to the Russians
Sun Tzu’s impact on modern leaders
It is hard to state where Sun Tzu has impacted other modern leaders unless it has been specifically stated, but writing his book in the 5/6th B.C. Sun Tzu has a certain copyright claim to the ideas he presented. To name a few…
Mao Zedong, On Guerilla Warfare (1937) specifically mentions The Art of War when fighting Japan.
Napoleon Bonaparte, J. Christopher Herold, The Age of Napoleon (1963): Describes Napoleon’s military tactics and strategy, some of which align with Sun Tzu’s teachings on surprise, speed, and strategic deception.
Norman Schwarzkopf, It Doesn’t Take a Hero (1992): Schwarzkopf references The Art of War in discussing his strategy during Operation Desert Storm, especially deception tactics.
A ChatGPT break
In a fit of inquiry, I asked ChatGPT to compare The Art of War to the Christian spiritual battle. I cannot claim its response, but the AI writes, seeing spiritual warfare in a strategic, disciplined way, much like a general would approach a physical war. See footnote on how some key principles of Sun Tzu’s The Art of War could be applied. [2]
Epilogue:
As a quick review of Sun Tzu’s 64 page book, (free on Amazon.com Kindle), here are the 13 categories he addresses: 1. Laying Plans, 2. Waging War, 3. Attack by stratagem, 4. Tactical dispositions, 5. Energy, 6. Weak points and strong, 7. Maneuvering, 8. Variations in Tactics, 9. The Army on the March, 10. Terrain, 11. The Nine Situations, 12. The Attack By Fire, 13. The Use of Spies.
Clearly, these are points given for martial situations and yet we see these principles creep into modern leadership guidelines.
Michaelson, Gerald A. The Art of War for Managers: 50 Strategic Rules. Adams Media, 2001.
Krause, Donald G. The Art of War for Executives. Perigee Books, 1995.
Chu, Chin-Ning. The Art of War for Women: Sun Tzu’s Ancient Strategies and Wisdom for Winning at Work. Currency, 2007.
And then the play on words with Pressfield and Steven. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles. New York: Black Irish Entertainment, 2012.
Sun Tsu is clearly speaking across the span of years to leadership writers and scholars.
As a young Christian, raised in a loosely catholic background the battle between angels and devils was discussed. Saints in Catholicism seemed to be generals in the spiritual battle. So, the idea of spiritual warfare was not an intellectual leap for me when I turned Protestant. Twenty-three years, 6 months and 11 days (but who’s counting) in the U.S. Army ingrained in me this military perspective that embraces the spiritual armor in Ephesians 6.
While the bible is our spiritual “war manual” it is interesting to see how a 5th Century Chinese General has impacted leaders in pursuit of war and in 2024’s business world. While Ukraine and Israel give us ample opportunities to observe how the principles of Sun Tzu will play out, it is the bible that will see us to the “end of times.”
[1] Sun Tzu. The Art of War. Universal Publishers, July 10, 2024. ASIN B0D971R59C. Kindle.
[2] 1. Know Your Enemy (孙子曰: 知彼知己，百战不殆)
Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of understanding both your enemy and yourself. In the Christian spiritual battle, this translates to recognizing the nature of sin, temptation, and the tactics of the devil (Ephesians 6:12). A Christian needs to be aware of spiritual forces, their vulnerabilities, and strengths, while also understanding their own spiritual weaknesses and where they need God’s strength (Ephesians 6:10-11).
- Preparation and Strategy (谋定而后动，知止而有得)
Sun Tzu stresses thorough preparation before engaging in battle. Similarly, Christians are called to put on the “full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13-18), which includes faith, righteousness, the Word of God, and prayer, in preparation for the spiritual battle. Consistent prayer and Scripture reading act as training for battle, ensuring one is ready when the attack comes.
- “Use of Deception” (兵者，诡道也)
Sun Tzu talks about the use of deception in warfare. From a Christian perspective, this aligns with being aware of the enemy’s deceptive tactics. Satan often presents sin in a way that seems appealing or harmless (2 Corinthians 11:14), so Christians must stay vigilant and rely on discernment through the Holy Spirit to avoid being misled (1 Peter 5:8).
- Flexibility in Tactics (因敌变化而取胜)
Flexibility and adaptability are key in Sun Tzu’s strategies. The Christian spiritual battle requires flexibility as well, recognizing that the enemy’s attacks may come in different forms—temptations, doubts, or persecutions. Christians must remain steadfast in faith but flexible in how they respond, often relying on God’s guidance through prayer and scripture to navigate challenges (James 1:5).
- Focus on Weak Points (攻其不备，出其不意)
Sun Tzu encourages attacking the enemy’s weak points. In spiritual terms, Christians should focus on strengthening their weaknesses through prayer, accountability, and spiritual disciplines. The devil often exploits personal weaknesses, so self-awareness and targeted spiritual growth are critical (1 Corinthians 10:13).
- Unity and Leadership (令民与上同意)
Effective leadership and unity among the troops are vital in battle. In the spiritual battle, unity within the body of Christ (the church) is essential. Christians must support one another, hold each other accountable, and work together to resist evil forces (1 Corinthians 12:12-26). Jesus Christ is the ultimate leader, and submission to His leadership ensures victory in spiritual warfare (Ephesians 1:22-23).
- Seizing Opportunities (机不可失，时不再来)
Sun Tzu emphasizes seizing the right moment for action. Spiritually, Christians are encouraged to make the most of every opportunity to resist temptation, spread the gospel, and perform good works (Ephesians 5:16, Colossians 4:5). Understanding God’s timing and being spiritually alert allows believers to act wisely in spiritual conflicts.
About the Author
Russell Chun
interlinkt.org is now ready for your Refugee Resettlement needs. 15 tasks, languages ESL plans coming8 responses to “孙子兵法》与精神之战, The Art of War & the Spiritual Battle”
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Russell, I almost read this book too…but then I went with a book with talking owls and racing tortoises because, why not?
You write, Know Your Enemy (孙子曰: 知彼知己，百战不殆)
Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of understanding both your enemy and yourself. In the Christian spiritual battle, this translates to recognizing the nature of sin, temptation, and the tactics of the devil (Ephesians 6:12).
It is interesting to me the way different denominations understand “the devil” or, as Ephesians 6 says, “the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present[f] darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” In seminary (if I remember correctly) I was taught not to give “the devil” too much air time – because the more time you spend thinking about something, or trying to avoid, recognize, understand something, the more power you give it. I’ve also understood “the devil” to be more of the evil forces in this world – such as unjust politics, racism, etc. That said, I am interested in other interpretations and am interested in what you have to say in this blog about Christian Spiritual warfare. Thanks for your thoughts!
HI Kally,
Hmmmm “giving the devil air time.” That is rather new to me.
The first scripture I memorized was as a new Christian was, 1 Corinthians 10:13, No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted[b] beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it..
I suppose this was the Holy Spirit helping me deal with the dominant sins in my 33 year old life. My continued struggle with some of those sins still rage, so I see the battle clearly.
So knowing the enemy is key for my place in the spiritual battle that seeks to stop my kingdom work. When I indulge in my sin it affects the tasks HE has set before me.
A lot of “air time” is given to the struggle of sin in Men’s bible studies. But I don’t mind. It reminds me that I am not alone on the battlefield.
Shalom…
I was curious if you would choose *The Art of War* for this assignment! I remember you bringing it up during Martin Percy’s question in Oxford, and it’s fascinating how you’ve connected Sun Tzu’s strategies to the current events in Ukraine and modern leadership. The parallels between military tactics and spiritual battles are especially compelling—great insights!
Thanks Mathieu,
However, I wonder if I am a “one note” band. Especially, when it comes to a military perspective on leadership.
One major thing I enjoy is reading the posts of our cohort. Their viewpoints take me out of my realm of experiences.
My time in Ukraine is causing me to explore “team leadership” as the model for GoodSports Ukraine. Lacking a dominant leader, I see a “collective” of like minded individuals emerging.
Interesting times.
Shalom.
Russell, The Art of War was one of the books I considered, but I ended up choosing Meditations. I’d love to eventually read Sun Tzu’s work, but it will have to wait until after the doctorate.
I was intrigued with the connection to the Ukrainian military’s advance into the Kursk region — going where the enemy is not. I’m assuming that region was not defended (I haven’t looked too much at the news recently about that story) or well-defended?
I’m also curious — Have you thought about this particular idea of succeeding in places that aren’t defended and connections you could make in your NPO project? Can you use this framework somehow in drafting a solution? Or, perhaps there would be more connections with “6. Unity and Leadership.”
Thanks for the post — now I want to read the book even more!
Travis,
You just gave me an AHA moment!
I really do need to take my project Interlinkt.org to places that are not so well entrenched.
There are many smaller refugee resettlement groups that could benefit from the website.
THANKS so much for grabbing my face and pointing at something so obvious (Sun Tzu was probably spinning in his grave.”
Shalom.
Thanks, Russell, for your thoughtful post. I liked how you brought Chat GPT in and tied your concept to spiritual warfare as well. I’ve been learning so much from everyone’s posts on this assignment. I wish Jason had done an assignment like this every semester!
Hi Kim,
Since writing this, I have had a crossroad moment, I came to the realization that in my “twilight years” (I hit 65 last week), that I needed to focus my emotional and spiritual focus on things I can impact.
President Biden hasn’t been taking my calls about Israel. Neither has Volodymyr Zelensky!
The people who are responding are the like minded Ukrainian Christians what Love God, Love Kids, and sometimes use sports. (www.goodsportsinternational.org)
There are 300 children in the soccer program in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine alone! That is where my greatest impact can occur.
So I have a renewed focus on “staying in my lane.”
Have a great week.
Shalom….