11.31

Chapter: The Nine Situations

11.31

Translation:

Hence it is not enough to put one’s trust in the tethering of horses, and the burying of chariot wheels in the ground.

Commentary

If you tether horses away from the battlefield, the soldiers cannot flee on horseback. If you bury chariot wheels, they cannot flee this way either.

These are methods that were used to ensure soldiers fought on a common footing.

Yet these are cynical methods and the horses and chariots could be used more constructively if you can trust your troops. This requires leadership.

Leadership is important also in ensuring communication, coordination and acting as the snake of shuai-jan.