Poverty of the State exchequer causes an army to be maintained by contributions from a distance. Contributing to maintain an army at a distance causes the people to be impoverished.

The quote from Sun Tzu emphasizes the intricate relationship between state resources, military expenditure, and societal well-being. The essence of this statement lies in the notion that substantial military obligations, especially those sustained through distant contributions, can lead to the impoverishment of a nation’s populace. It suggests that when a state faces financial limitations, it becomes reliant on external resources, which can drain the economy and exploit the citizens. This unfortunate cycle portrays the precarious balance of power and resource allocation; a state’s need for military force can inadvertently shift the burden onto its people. As resources are diverted to support far-off military initiatives, domestic welfare initiatives often suffer, leading to poverty and dissatisfaction among the citizenry. Essentially, a state that prioritizes military needs over its socio-economic health risks destabilizing both. In modern contexts, this reflection can be applied to various scenarios, including national defense policies, foreign military engagements, and economic strategies. For example, countries that engage in costly foreign military campaigns may find themselves diverting essential resources away from health care, education, and infrastructure, which lead to greater societal inequality and unrest. The ongoing implications of excessive military spending can spark public discontent and weaken national morale. Moreover, in the contemporary global landscape, economic sanctions or support to allied nations can echo Sun Tzu's insight. When nations contribute financially to allies, often at the expense of domestic investment, they risk harming their own citizens’ prospects. The quote serves as a reminder for policymakers to contemplate the long-term ramifications of military expenditures fully and to strive for a harmonious balance between national security and the well-being of the population. Sustainable policies should promote not just security, but also enhance economic vitality to fortify the state as a whole.