{"collection":"Islam","html_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/browse/isl/arw/arw37.htm","path":"isl/arw/arw37.htm","source_url":"https://sacred-texts.com/isl/arw/arw37.htm","text":"Arabian Wisdom, by John Wortabet, [1913]\nWar is an evil thing to both victor and vanquished.\nIt is better to avoid than to make war.\nThe most honourable death is on the battlefield.\nTo die in battle from a thousand cuts of the sword is easier than to die in bed.\nHe who incites soldiers to courage in action is of more value than a thousand fighting men.\nAn army to a king is like wings to a bird.\nTo carry out a well-devised plan in war is more effectual than strokes and thrusts.\nA battle is fought by feints and stratagems.\nWhat an easy thing is a battle to one who looks on at a distance!\nPatient constancy is the key to victory.\nTwo wolves kill a lion. Two weak men vanquish one that is strong.\nBeware of aggression in war\u2014for it can lead to no glory in victory.\nTo overcome the weak has all the shame of a defeat.\nA butcher is not frightened at the sight of a multitude of sheep.\nTo retire from an unsuccessful battle is defeat.\nMagnanimity to captives, and mercy to the fallen, are a hymn of praise to God for victory.","title":"Arabian Wisdom: War","type":"page"}