King Wei Asks

King Wei of Qi asked Sun Bin about the way of using troops: “When two armies confront each other and the generals of both sides can see each other, and both formations are solid and hard to attack, and neither dares to move first, what should be done?” Sun Bin replied: “Use a small light-force unit to test them, led by a low-ranking but brave man, seeking only feigned defeat, not victory. At the same time, set up a concealed formation to attack their flank. This is the way to great victory.” King Wei asked: “Is there a rule in using many or few troops?” Sun Bin answered: “There is.” King Wei asked: “When I am strong and the enemy is weak, when I am numerous and the enemy is few, how should they be used?” Sun Bin bowed twice and said: “Only a wise ruler would ask such a question. When troops are both numerous and strong, and one still asks how to use them, this is precisely the principle of securing the state. It is called ‘reinforcing the army.’ Deliberately disorder the ranks and confuse the formation, following the enemy’s wishes by showing weakness, and the enemy......