Tao Te Ching

War

The finest weapons are the worst evils,
They are universally loathed.
Therefore, help guide your nation
To the non-aggressive path.

The wise hold steady
On the passive yin path.
Those who are aggressive
Prefer the active yang.

Weapons are instruments of coercion
And devils of death.
Resort to them only in dire necessity,
Peace is our natural state of being.

If weapons must be wielded
To defend ourselves,
And we are victorious, never rejoice.
There is no joy in the slaughter of others.

On joyous occasions,
We attune with the yang side.
On sad occasions, with the yin.

During battle,
The soldiers are on the left yang side,
Engaging in the combat.
The commanders are on the right yin side,
Observing the action.

After the battle,
The soldiers who have slain others,
Move to the yin side and mourn,
While the commanders,
Now on the yang side,
Are celebrating victory
Even though it is a funeral.

Verse 31
Photo; Mars