This article analyzes Sun Tzu’s rule valuing swift victories over drawn-out wars. Long campaigns drain funds, troops and invite rival invasions. King Helü’s prolonged occupation of Chu illustrates the peril of delay, enabling Yue’s sneak attack and Wu’s costly retreat.
Sun Tzu stresses that war prioritizes swift victory over prolonged fighting. A general who masters warfare holds people’s fates and determines the safety or peril of the entire nation.
Sun Tzu argues prolonged warfare wears down troops, drains national resources and invites rival invasions. He insists swift victory is always preferable, for no long war can ever bring lasting benefits to a state.