Chapter 8 · Variation in Tactics

Sun Tzu said: There are roads which must not be followed, armies which must not be attacked, towns which must not be besieged, positions which must not be contested, commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed. The general who thoroughly understands the advantages that accompany variation of tactics knows how to handle his troops. The wise man in framing his calculations considers both advantage and disadvantage. The art of war teaches us to rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him. There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general: reckless courage, cowardice, a hasty temper, a delicacy of honor, and over-solicitude for his men. These are the five besetting sins of a general.