The Three Strategies: Middle Scroll

Page 7

...then [wickedness] enters the camp. If the wicked gather together, and the general possesses these three faults, the army will surely be defeated.

If the general lacks foresight, then the strategists moushi (謀士): professional military planners and advisors often hired for their intellectual and tactical brilliance will depart. If the general lacks courage, the soldiers will be gripped by fear. If the general acts recklessly, the army will lack gravity original: "不重" (bu zhong); meaning the army loses its sense of authority, stability, and seriousness. If the general misdirects his anger, the entire army will live in fear.

The Military Prophecies state: Deliberation and courage are what a general should hold in high regard. Action and anger are the tools a general must use. These four qualities are the clear manifestations of a general's sincerity.

The Military Prophecies state: If the army lacks wealth, the soldiers will not come. If the army lacks rewards, the soldiers will not go forward.

The Military Prophecies state: Beneath a fragrant bait original: "香餌" (xiang er); a metaphor for enticing lures used to catch fish, applied here to the recruitment of soldiers, there will surely be dead fish. Beneath heavy rewards, there will surely be brave men.

Therefore, courtesy original: "禮" (li); referring to the ritual respect and proper treatment shown by a leader to their subordinates is what draws soldiers to return to pledge allegiance. Rewards are what soldiers will die for. By inviting them with what draws them and demonstrating what they will die for, that which is sought will be achieved.

Therefore, if one shows courtesy and then regrets it, the soldiers will not come. If one offers rewards and then regrets it, the soldiers cannot be commanded. If courtesy and rewards are offered tirelessly, then the soldiers will vie with one another to face death.

The Military Prophecies state: A nation that raises an army must first emphasize great benevolence original: "隆恩" (long en); profound favor or imperial grace bestowed upon the people. A nation that attacks and takes territory must first...