How to Read “勇将の下に弱卒なし”
yuushou no moto ni jakusotsu nashi
Meaning of “勇将の下に弱卒なし”
“Under brave general weak soldiers none” means that under an excellent leader, subordinates naturally become outstanding as well.
This is a proverb that expresses the great influence of a leader. When a brave and capable general leads an army, the soldiers under them are also influenced and become strong, and there are no weak soldiers. Excellent leaders have the power to draw out and develop the potential of their subordinates.
This proverb is used when talking about the results of organizations or teams. It is used to explain the impact that a leader’s qualities have on the overall performance of an organization, such as “That department’s performance is good because the manager is excellent. As they say, Under brave general weak soldiers none.”
In modern times, it is understood as applying to various groups such as company departments, sports teams, and school classes. The idea that excellent leaders train, encourage, and provide appropriate guidance to their subordinates, thereby raising the level of the entire organization, still resonates with many people today.
Origin and Etymology
“Under brave general weak soldiers none” is a proverb that originates from Chinese classics. “Brave general” means a courageous and excellent general, and “weak soldiers” means weak soldiers.
Behind this proverb lies ancient Chinese military thought. From the Warring States period to the Han dynasty, the idea that soldiers would naturally become strong under excellent commanders spread widely. This was not mere spiritual theory, but observation based on actual battlefield experience.
It is believed to have been introduced to Japan from the Heian to Kamakura periods, along with Buddhist and Confucian teachings. As warrior society developed, this proverb came to hold particularly important meaning. The military commanders of the Warring States period would have cherished these words as a mindset for leading their subordinates.
What is interesting is that this proverb transcended its military context and became established as general organizational management wisdom. Even in the merchant houses and craftsman worlds of the Edo period, it was accepted as the idea that the caliber of masters and employers greatly influenced the growth of apprentices and employees. The reason it has been passed down to modern times is because it contains this universal truth.
Usage Examples
- The team has become stronger since the new coach arrived – it’s truly Under brave general weak soldiers none
- All the staff working under that store manager are excellent, making me realize Under brave general weak soldiers none
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, “Under brave general weak soldiers none” is being reevaluated as words that strike at the heart of leadership theory. In the information age, the sharing of knowledge and technology determines organizational competitiveness, so the value of leaders who can draw out their subordinates’ abilities has increased even more.
The shift from traditional top-down organizational management to flat organizational structures that emphasize member autonomy has also influenced the interpretation of this proverb. Modern “brave generals” are required to have the ability to show vision, arrange environments, and utilize individual strengths, rather than moving subordinates through commands.
With technological advancement making remote work and online teams commonplace, skills for maintaining subordinate motivation and promoting growth even when physically separated are now highly valued. Leaders who can build human trust relationships while utilizing digital tools can truly be called “brave generals.”
On the other hand, in modern times that respect individual diversity and values, rather than seeking uniform “strength,” organizations are required to improve overall performance while utilizing each person’s individuality. The essence of this proverb remains unchanged, but the methods for realizing it continue to evolve with the times.
When AI Hears This
The Pygmalion effect is a psychological phenomenon where people actually develop their abilities when others expect them to succeed, believing “this person will surely grow.” In an experiment conducted by Dr. Rosenthal in 1968, simply telling teachers “this student will become excellent” actually led to improved academic performance in those students.
“Under a brave general, there are no weak soldiers” captures this exact effect from over 2000 years ago. When excellent generals look at their subordinates, they hold the conviction that “these soldiers will definitely become strong.” This expectation unconsciously manifests in their attitude and words, transmitting to their subordinates.
What’s fascinating is the brain changes that occur in those who receive these expectations. When people feel “trusted,” dopamine—which governs motivation—is released, enhancing concentration. Furthermore, stress hormones that cause fear of failure decrease, making it easier to demonstrate one’s true abilities.
For example, even with identical training, soldiers told “you can do this” clearly improve faster than soldiers who are told nothing. This means that brave generals were unconsciously and scientifically drawing out their subordinates’ potential abilities.
It’s remarkable that this principle, which ancient military leaders understood intuitively, has been proven by modern science. Perhaps the essence of excellent leadership remains unchanged across the ages.
Lessons for Today
This proverb teaches us about the “responsibility of influence.” People in leadership positions need to be aware that their actions and attitudes have a great impact on the people around them.
In modern society, even without formal positions, everyone has opportunities to become a “brave general” in various situations such as family, friendships, and hobby circles. When we find ourselves in positions that influence others, such as mentoring juniors, child-rearing, or team projects, it’s important to think about what kind of person we want to be.
This proverb also teaches us about the “power of environment.” By being under a good leader, we ourselves can grow. It’s important to actively seek people and environments that help us improve and maintain an attitude of learning from them.
On the other hand, we shouldn’t wait for perfect leaders, but should do our best within our current environment. No matter what situation we’re in, we should strive to become people who can have a positive influence on others as our own kind of “brave general.” Small acts of kindness and positive attitudes are surely helping someone.
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