TACTICS

With a large army you should not give battle in a place fit only for a smaller force; for then your full force will not have room for action and is likely to be demoralized.

Even though their fortifications and army may be weaker, it is not easy to attack and overcome those who have the advantage of operating in their native country

The importance of favourable time is stressed by the simile of the owl being defeated by the crow if the fight is during daytime. The difference wrought by a right choice of place is brought out by the analogies of the crocodile and of the boat.

In deep waters, the crocodile triumphs, but out of the water it is powerless.

The crow defeats the owl in daytime. The kings who intend to defeat the operations of their strong enemies must choose the right time.

The strong-wheeled chariot cannot be driven on the sea, and the boat that moves swiftly on the water cannot be used on land: 

[ Up ]