Treatise on Military Preparedness (Vol. 3)

Commentary on Military Secrets: The Methods of the Sima

Using advantage while upholding duty original: 義 (yi), referring to righteousness, justice, or the moral obligation of the soldier will cause the people to exert themselves then the people will be encouraged and diligent; when many plans reach fruition, the people will submit.

Through clear standards. When strategies succeed and are executed at the proper time, the sequence of command is established then military affairs can be managed in their proper order; when material resources are ready, the people follow.

Banners and colors serve as distinct markers of the rules. The soldiers’ vision will be clear and discerning; once the visual markers are clear, the strategy is settled, hearts become resolute, and the army advances or retreats without hesitation.

When facing the enemy without a pre-set plan, first establish clear communication. In carrying out punishments original: 誅 (zhu), which can refer to execution or severe disciplinary action, do not deceive the reputation of the accused; do not change the banners. Within the ranks within the ranks there must be a chain of hearing; for those awaiting execution, there must be no deception or fraud. The names must not the names must not be changed nor the flag signals altered, for fear of confusing the masses.

If the heart’s intent is good, it will endure only goodness lasts for a long time. Follow ancient precedents in action; when the solemn oath Shi (誓): A ritualized military oath taken before battle to bind the army's spirit and clarify the laws of the coming engagement creates standards, the people grow strong. Unity within the oath, making the standards clear, allows authority to ward off ill-omens protecting against unlucky occurrences; one should destroy the path of misfortune. When the spirit is roused and strong, misfortune is extinguished; quench the fears that cause doubt; destroy the path of misfortune.

The first priority is duty; clothe the people in trust, and preside over them with strength. Establish the foundation to shape the world’s disposition the situation depends on the people; there is none who will not be pleased. This is what is called winning over all types of people. In this way, heroes will all be pleased to return to me, and I may employ them together.