Discord in the state: then never make war.
Discord in the army: then do not strike camp.
Discord in the camp: then do not advance to attack,
Discord in the battle array: then seek not to decide the issue.
Therefore, wise rulers who would employ their subjects in great endeavours, should first establish harmony among them.
Lend not a ready ear to human counsellors, but lay the matter before the altar; seek inside the turtle,[1]and consider well the time and season. Then, if all be well, commit ourselves to the undertaking.
If the people know that their lord is careful of their lives, and laments their death beyond all else; then, in the time of danger, the soldiers advance, and, advancing, find glory in death; and in survival after retreat, dishonour.
The Master said:—
The Way must follow the only true
- ↑ The back of a turtle was burnt, and the answer was ascertained by the manner in which the shell split.
