If Soldiers Are Punished Before They Have Grown

When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected .

Receive without pride, let go without attachment.

When strong, avoid them. If of high morale, depress them. Seem humble to fill them with conceit. If at ease, exhaust them. If united, separate them. Attack their weaknesses. Emerge to their surprise.

Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves