The 36 Strategies - Strategies for Attack

Beat the grass to startle the snake

Any suspicion about the enemy's circumstances must be investigated. Before any military action, be sure to ascertain the enemy's situation; repeated reconnaissance is an effective way to discover the hidden enemy.

Example

Raise a corpse from the dead

The powerful is beyond exploitation, but the weak needs help. Exploit and manipulate the weak for they need you more than you need them.

Example

Lure the tiger out of the mountain

Use unfavourable natural conditions to trap the enemy in a difficult position. Use deception to lure him out. In an offensive that involves great risk lure the enemy to come out against you.

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Let the enemy off in order to snare him

Press the enemy forces too hard and they will strike back fiercely. Let them go and their morale will sink. Follow then closely, but do not push them too hard. Tire them out and sap their morale; capture them when they are in panic and flee helter-skelter. In this way, victory is won without shedding blood. In short, careful delay in attack will help to bring destruction to the enemy.

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Cast a brick to attract a gem

Use bait to lure the enemy and take them in.

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To catch rebels, nab their leader first

Destroy the enemy crack forces and capture their chief, and the enemy will collapse. His situation will be as desperate as a sea dragon fighting on land.

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