This is an ancient Chinese belief on the role of war. The first “war” means a just war, the second an unjust one. A just war is waged to resist a war that has been forced upon one. It is not of one’s choosing, but is fought to defend the country and the people from imposed violence, in order to ultimately end the war and restore peace and stability. It expresses the “civil” spirit of the Chinese nation that believes in justice and peace. It is similar in meaning to “stopping war is a true craft of war.”

The purpose of military action should include the following seven tasks: to prohibit violence, stop wars, maintain one’s strength, safeguard achievements,give peace to the people, bring harmony to the multitudes, and enrich the state’s resources. (Zuo’s Commentary on The Spring and Autumn Annals)

The ancient people considered benevolent love to be the foundation of society, and the use of force in ethical ways as the proper way. …If getting rid of the wicked is for the common good, then killing is permissible; if attacking another country is to protect its people, the attack is well-founded; if war is used to stop war, then it is justified. (The General Commander’s Treatise on War)