The Five Heads of the Army

He who knows them will be victorious, he who knows them not will fail. The commander stands for the virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage and strictness. By means of these seven considerations I can forecast victory or defeat. According as circumstances are favorable one should modify one's plans. All warfare is based on deception. When able to attack we must seem unable. When using our forces we must seem inactive. If your opponent is of choleraic temper seek to irritate him. pretend to be weak that he may grow arrogant. Twenty-three, if he is taking his ease give him no rest. If his forces are united separate them. Eighteen, hence