Why did Philip II say I sent my Ships to fight against men and not against the winds and waves of God?

Philip II's statement reflects his frustration with the unpredictable forces of nature that hindered his naval ambitions. He believed that the true battle lay against human adversaries rather than the challenges posed by storms and rough seas. This sentiment underscores the difficulties faced by naval commanders of his time, where natural elements often played a decisive role in the outcomes of military campaigns. Ultimately, it highlights the tension between human will and the uncontrollable power of nature.