When the hoplite foot soldiers of the phalanx went into the battle they were equipped with similar spears and blades and greaves (shin guards), and their shields.
“Return with your shield or on it” the saying goes, die in battle or bring it back with you. To return without our shield was a huge dishonor, being labeled shamefully as “one who threw his shield”, ostracized upon return and sometimes executed for selfish cowardice. We could return without our spear or greaves, but not without our shield. We could return with nothing but our shield and still receive glory, because the shield held the most importance.
All other equipment was meant to inflict damage on the enemy, or to protect one’s self, but the shield was different. In the phalanx the shield also protected the vulnerable flank of our comrades. To leave it behind meant we left our comrades flank exposed. Our helmet protects our skull but to abandon our shield endangers the whole. If we aren’t actively helping, protecting and serving our fellow teammates we are dropping our shield.
To be the best with our spear, or the best on the local competition circuit without helping others along, the phalanx or the team weakens. There are times to break rank and chase something down, a competition or an enemy on the field of battle, but we should always return to reinforce the phalanx. We should be mindful to contribute to the whole, help where we can, be the one to ask for a roll, welcome the new guy, share the technique.
What’s good for the hive is good for the bee, what’s good for the phalanx is good for the hoplite, the team and the individual grappler.
