Dynamic Interpretation and Application of the Anti-Classics: The Ultimate Leadership Strategy for All Ages

Author: (Tang) Zhao Rui, translated by Zhang Weibo
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-12-01
Features: The Art of War in Reverse is a work on strategic studies written by Zhao Rui of the Tang Dynasty. It has been widely known and revered by emperors, ministers, and generals throughout history, often referred to as the "miniature Zizhi Tongjian." While Zizhi Tongjian discusses statecraft in terms of the rise and fall of nations, The Art of War in Reverse focuses on the gains and losses of rulers and ministers in terms of strategy. Historical records provide little complete information about the life of the author Zhao Rui. From scattered historical materials, we know that Zhao Rui, styled Taibin and Yunqing, was from Yanting, Zizhou (now Sichuan). Described as "brave and righteous," he was skilled in strategic studies and active during the prosperous Tang Dynasty. His fame was equal to that of the great poet Li Bai, as people said, "Zhao Rui's artistry, Li Bai's poetry," and together they became renowned during the Kaiyuan era of prosperity. However, unlike Li Bai, who indulged in poetry, wine, and pleasure, Zhao Rui did not pursue official career or fame. It is said that "Emperor Minghuang repeatedly summoned him but he refused to serve," and he lived in seclusion in the mountains his entire life. The Art of War in Reverse is a historical philosophy that blends Confucian, Taoist, Legalist, military, miscellaneous, and Yin-Yang schools of thought, elucidating the strategies of kings and emperors, as well as the long and short-term methods. Its overall structure is woven with history as the warp and strategy as the weft, forming a coherent and magnificent work. The book covers the history from Yao and Shun to the Sui and Tang dynasties, focusing on four key themes: the rise and fall of nations, strategic flexibility, the selection and use of talent, and human virtue and vice. At times, it praises the ideal governance of the "Way of Kings" and the great achievements of Yao and Shun's military and cultural prowess; at other times, it criticizes the decline of successive dynasties, the corruption of rulers, the destruction of families and states, and the just desserts of their misdeeds. At times, it offers insightful discussions on physiognomy, analyzing external appearances to discern social status through humor; at other times, it warns rulers to value talent, for with it comes prosperity, and without it, collapse. At times, it recounts the reigns of emperors from various dynasties, discussing their strengths and weaknesses; at other times, it exposes social evils, such as "the petty-minded plant trees, the great ones seek shade." At times, it praises the importance of education and kindness, never forgetting friends of humble birth or abandoning poor wives; at other times, it attacks the hypocrisy of the daylight, such as "those who steal a hook are punished, but those who steal a state become feudal lords." At times, it admires the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn period and the Seven States of the Warring States period; at other times, it presents the great debaters Su Qin and Zhang Yi, engaging in grand discussions on alliances and confrontations. In summary, The Art of War in Reverse is both a multi-dimensional and comprehensive examination of history before the Tang Dynasty and a profound summary of historical lessons; it is both a profound and mystical historical philosophy that harmonizes heaven and humanity, and a comprehensive collection of ingenious strategies for governing states, managing families, and self-cultivation. Today, the book remains a specialized work on strategic studies for leaders. Especially for those with great ambitions and a pursuit of excellence, it offers strong insights for both strategic maneuvering, statecraft, public relations, and personal conduct, providing deep inspiration. The original text of The Art of War in Reverse is overly difficult and contains numerous annotations. To facilitate reading and popularize it among the masses, the translator has omitted the original text and provided only a modern translation, striving for clarity and accessibility. The original book consists of ten volumes and sixty-three chapters. The translator has appropriately omitted content less relevant to modern life, such as physiognomy, divination, military training, and battle formations. The titles of the original chapters were all two-character phrases, such as "Character Assessment" and "Leadership Qualities." We have added explanations to these titles to make this The Art of War in Reverse more accessible to modern readers.