Confucius said: “I am unversed in military matters.” 144 He also said: “If I fight, I conquer.” 144 Confucius ordered ceremonies and regulated music. Now war constitutes one of the five classes of State ceremonial, 145 and must not be treated as an independent branch of study. Hence, the words “I am unversed in” must be taken to mean that there are things which even an inspired Teacher does not know. Those who have to lead an army and devise stratagems, must learn the art of war. But if one can command the services of a good general like Sun Tzǔ , who was employed by Wu Tzǔ-hsü , there is no need to learn it oneself. Hence the remark added by Confucius: “If I fight, I conquer.” 146

240