Know thy self, know thy enemy.

Generally, management of many is the same as management of few. It is a matter of organization. And to control many is the same as to control few. This is a matter of formations and signals.

Hence the saying: One may know how to conquer without being able to do it.

Until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared

By altering his arrangements and changing his plans, the skillful general keeps the enemy without definite knowledge. By shifting his camp and taking circuitous routes, he prevents the enemy from anticipating his purpose. At the critical moment, the leader of an army acts like one who has climbed up a height and then kicks away the ladder behind him.

If you are far from the enemy, make him believe you are near.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.