Once war is resolved, close passes and destroy tallies, and cut off all enemy envoys. Devise thorough plans in the court. The moment the enemy shows a flaw, strike at once.
Seize their most vital positions first. Watch their movements closely and fight the decisive battle.
Be as quiet as a maiden before action, so the enemy lowers their guard. Then dart forth like a fleeing hare, leaving them no time to resist.
Note
Block passes and cut enemy envoys before war, devise thorough court plans. Strike swiftly at enemy gaps and seize their vital assets. Stay quiet as a maiden to lull guards, then dash like a hare to catch foes unprepared.
A great military strategist and thinker in ancient China, who lived in the late Spring and Autumn Period. He authored The Art of War, the world’s earliest and most influential military classic. His strategic thoughts have been widely applied in military, politics and management worldwide.
Block communication
Cut off contact with the enemy to keep secrets.
Wait for flaws
Seize opportunities when the enemy is careless.
Maiden and hare
Classic metaphor for being calm in preparation and swift in attack.
是故政舉之日，夷關折符，無通其使，厲于廊廟之上，以誅其事，敵人開闔，必亟入之。先其所愛，微與之期，賤墨隨敵，以決戰爭。是故始如處女，敵人開戶，後如脫兔，敵不及拒。
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