Ceasing from War

"Ornamental weapons are not instruments of joy, but objects of hatred to every creature. Therefore he who has Tau will not stay where they are. The superior man in his home makes the left hand (the weak side) the place of honour. But he who goes forth to use weapons of war honours the right (the strong) hand. They are instruments of evil omen. They are not the tools of a superior man. He uses them only when he cannot help it. Peace is his highest aim. When he conquers he is not elated. To be elated is to rejoice at the destruction of human life. And he who rejoices at the destruction of human life, is not fit to be entrusted with power in the world. In a prosperous state of affairs, the left side is preferred; and in an adverse state of affairs, the right side is preferred. The adjutant-general takes his place on the left, and the general-in-chief takes his place on the right. Now, I say, this is just the order of a funeral. He who has been instrumental in killing many people should mourn over them with bitter tears. Therefore, those who have been victorious in battle are disposed after the order of a funeral."