Strong military power isn’t something to be glorified. We should recognize it as an inauspicious instrument, the use of which inevitably brings misfortunes and calamities.
Violence and aggression are inextricably associated with the military. Thus, it is universally seen as extremely negative. Recognizing this, those who are on the path of Tao distance themselves from it.
During peacetime, honorable individuals value the left in day-to-day living. The left in this case symbolizes harmony.
During wartime, honorable individuals value the right in the utilization of the military. The right in this case symbolizes force.
Because the military is an ominous instrument of destruction, honorable individuals cannot see it as a tool that they identify with. It is the last resort, to be used only when absolutely necessary, when there is no other choice.
When forced to use the military, honorable individuals will do so with calmness above all, and detachment from emotional turmoil. They do not fight out of anger or hatred, and when they achieve victory, they do not consider it glorious. To them, there can be no possible glory in taking lives.
Those who do glorify war tend to be the ones who take delight in killing. Such people may think they have what it takes to conquer the world, but history shows they invariably fail to achieve their ambitions. They may dominate by force but never win the people’s hearts.
Auspicious events favor the left (symbolizing harmony) while inauspicious events favor the right (symbolizing force). Thus, the lieutenant general, responsible for the peacetime training of the military organization, is situated to the left of the emperor. The major general, responsible for leading attacks, is stationed to the right.
Because of their involvement with the military, both generals are regarded by Tao cultivators as if they are fixtures in a funeral.
Because many lives are inevitably lost in battle, we understand the grief of those who mourn the dead, no matter which side they belong to.
The military parade that follows victory may just as well be a funeral procession, no matter which side happens to be the victor.
Ms. Cat’s Chronicles 
You must be logged in to post a comment.