Stone on the Shore – “As the stone remains fixed upon the shore, so too the foolhardy clings to a plan conceived in ignorance. Embrace the wisdom of the water, which adapts to every stone, every curve, every obstacle. It does not fight; it flows.”
The “Stone on the Shore” principle uses the metaphor of a stone and water to contrast rigidity with adaptability. It suggests that sticking stubbornly to a plan, especially one formulated without full knowledge, is like being an unchanging stone on a river’s shore. In contrast, being like water, which adapts its course based on the terrain and obstacles it encounters, is a wiser approach. The principle encourages flexibility and adaptability in the face of changing circumstances, rather than clinging to an unchanging strategy.
Applying the Principle to Political Power
Politicians can greatly benefit from the “Stone on the Shore” principle. In politics, rigid adherence to a particular plan, especially one formed without considering all the factors at play, can lead to failure. Instead, politicians must be adaptable, willing to change their strategies based on new information, changing circumstances, or public sentiment. Like water flowing around a stone, they must find ways to navigate around obstacles rather than stubbornly attempting to overcome them through sheer force.
Historical Example
A powerful illustration of the “Stone on the Shore” principle can be found in the Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage. The Roman General Scipio Africanus, faced with the daunting challenge of defeating the Carthaginian military genius Hannibal, refused to remain fixed in traditional Roman warfare tactics.
During the Battle of Ilipa in 206 BC, instead of sticking to the usual Roman formation, Scipio dramatically altered his strategy. He arranged his forces in a way that gave the illusion of a weakened center. This prompted the Carthaginians to focus their strongest forces in the center, anticipating an easy victory. However, when the battle commenced, Scipio’s wings pushed inward, causing confusion among the Carthaginian ranks and eventually leading to a decisive Roman victory.
Scipio’s success at Ilipa showcased his adaptability. Instead of clinging to the stone-like rigidity of Roman tradition, he chose to flow like water, adapting his strategy to the obstacle he faced. His victory played a crucial role in shifting the balance of power in the Second Punic War, leading to Carthage’s ultimate defeat. This exemplifies how the correct use of the “Stone on the Shore” principle can turn the tide of war.
[Black Watch | Scrolls of Shunya | Scroll of the Obsidian River]
Last Modified: 10/22/2023