兵势篇

Sun Tzu said: In general, managing a large force is like managing a small one — it is a matter of organization. Fighting a large army is like fighting a small one — it is a matter of signals and commands. That the whole army can withstand the enemy's attack without being defeated is a matter of orthodox and unorthodox methods. To strike the enemy is like using a whetstone to smash an egg — it is a matter of void and solidity.

In general, in battle use the orthodox to engage and the unorthodox to win. Thus, one skilled at deploying the unorthodox is as inexhaustible as heaven and earth, as unending as the rivers and streams. Ending and beginning again, like the sun and moon; dying and being reborn, like the four seasons.

The rushing waters that can sweep away boulders owe their power to momentum (势). The fierce hawk that strikes and destroys its prey owes its success to timing (节). Thus the skilled commander creates a precipitous momentum and a short, sharp rhythm. His momentum is like a drawn crossbow; his timing is like the releasing of the trigger.

Amid turmoil and chaos, one may fight in confusion yet remain orderly. Amid swirling murkiness, one may form a rounded disposition that cannot be defeated. Disorder can arise from order; cowardice can arise from courage; weakness can arise from strength. Order and disorder are a matter of organization; courage and cowardice are a matter of momentum; strength and weakness are a matter of dispositions.