“God is not on the side of the big battalions, but on the side of those who shoot best.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“God is not on the side of the big battalions, but on the side of those who shoot best.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s cynical and pragmatic view on war and divine intervention. He suggests that victory in war is not determined by the size or strength of an army (“the big battalions”) but by skill, precision, and strategy (“those who shoot best”). The reference to God implies that divine favor does not automatically go to the larger or more powerful force, but rather to those who are most capable or effective in achieving their objectives, regardless of their numbers.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with the reality of military strategy, where superior tactics, training, and technology can often overcome a numerical disadvantage. Voltaire’s statement challenges the notion that larger or more powerful forces are inherently justified or favored by divine will, instead emphasizing the importance of competence and strategy. It can also be interpreted as a critique of the idea that moral or divine approval is granted simply to those who appear more powerful or dominant in war.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in historical battles where smaller, better-equipped forces have triumphed over larger armies. For instance, the Battle of Agincourt during the Hundred Years’ War demonstrated how English archers, despite being outnumbered, defeated a larger French force through superior tactics and skill. Voltaire’s quote reminds us that success, in both war and life, is often a result of expertise and precision rather than mere size or strength.
