The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming.

Use humility to make the enemy haughty. Tire them by flight. Cause division among them. When they are unprepared, attack and make your move when they do not expect it.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.

A battle avoided cannot be lost.

Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy... use the conquered foe to augment one's own strength.

When torrential water tosses boulders, it is because of its momentum. When the strike of a hawk breaks the body of its prey, it is because of timing.

If a battle can not be won do not fight it.