7.31

Chapter: Maneuvering

7.31

Translation:

To be near the goal while the enemy is still far from it, to wait at ease while the enemy is toiling and struggling, to be well-fed while the enemy is famished:–this is the art of husbanding one’s strength.

Commentary

Strength, motivation and spirit are what you need in battle. When you are not fighting or marching, you should conserve the energies you will need later.

If you can cause your enemy to lose their calm, always keeping them on edge, then when you meet you will have a significant advantage.