Engage people with what they expect; it is what they are able to discern and confirms their projections. It settles them into predictable patterns of response, occupying their minds while you wait for the extraordinary moment - that which they cannot anticipate.

Pretend to be weak, so your enemy may grow arrogant.

From a position of this sort, if the enemy is unprepared, you may sally forth and defeat him. But if the enemy is prepared for your coming, and you fail to defeat him, then, return being impossible, disaster will ensue.

In the tumult and uproar, the battle seems chaotic, but there is no disorder, the troops appear to be milling about in circles but cannot be defeated.

He who knows his enemy and himself well will not be defeated easily.

If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner

If this is long delayed, weapons are blunted and morale depressed.