If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.

A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

Those skilled at making the enemy move do so by creating a situation to which he must conform; they entice him with something he is certain to take, and with lures of ostensible profit they await him in strength.

Throw your soldiers into positions whence there is no escape, and they will prefer death to flight. If they will face death, there is nothing they may not achieve.

The clever combatant looks to the effect of combined energy, and does not require too much from individuals. Hence his ability to pick out the right men and utilize combined energy

A kingdom that has once been destroyed can never come again into being; nor can the dead ever be brought back to life.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.