The 36 Strategies - Strategies for Superior Position

Cross the sea under camouflage

The perception of perfect preparation leads to relased vigilance. The sight of common occurrences leads to slackened suspicion. Therefore secret machinations are better concealed in the open than in the dark, and extreme public exposure often contains extreme secrecy.

Example

Besiege Wei to rescue Zhao

It is wiser to launch an attack against the enemy forces when they are dispersed than to fight them when they are concentrated. He who strikes first fails and ho who strikes late prevails.

Example

Kill with a borrowed knife

Your enemy's situation is clear but your ally's stand is uncertain. At this time, induce your ally to attack your enemy in order to preserve your strength. In dialectic terms, another man's loss is your gain.

Example

Wait at ease for the enemy

To weaken the enemy, it is not necessary to attack him directly. Tire him by carrying out an active defence, and in doing so, his strength will be reduced, and your side will gain the upper hand. This is weakening the strong to benefit the weak.

Example

Loot a burning house

When the enemy falls into a severe crisis, exploit his adversity and attack by direct confrontation. This is the strong defeating the weak.

Example

Make a feint to the east while attacking in the west

When the enemy command is in confusion, it will be unprepared for any contingencies. The situation is like flood waters rising higher and higher; likely to burst the dam at any time. When the enemy loses internal control, take the chance and destroy him.

Example