When the enemy is close at hand and remains quiet, what are they relying on?
Explanation
This question assesses the ability to interpret the enemy's posture, showing that stillness can be a sign of strength and confidence in their chosen ground.
Other questions
According to Sun Tzu's instructions for mountain warfare, what should an army do when encamping?
What does Sun Tzu advise a commander to do immediately after his army has crossed a river?
When an invading force is crossing a river, what is the best moment to attack them according to Sun Tzu?
What is the primary concern when crossing salt-marshes?
In dry, level country, where should an army ideally position itself?
How many 'useful branches of military knowledge' are mentioned that enabled the Yellow Emperor to vanquish four several sovereigns?
What should a commander do when a river they wish to ford is swollen and flecked with foam due to heavy rains up-country?
Which of the following terrain types, such as precipitous cliffs, confined places, and quagmires, should be left with all possible speed and not approached?
According to Sun Tzu, what does movement amongst the trees of a forest signify?
What is indicated by the appearance of a number of screens in the midst of thick grass?
The rising of birds in their flight is a sign of what?
What does dust rising in a high column signify, versus dust that is low but spread over a wide area?
What do humble words combined with increased preparations from the enemy signify?
What do violent language and the enemy driving forward as if to attack signify?
What do peace proposals that are not accompanied by a sworn covenant indicate?
What does it mean when soldiers are seen standing and leaning on their spears?
If those sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, what does this reveal about their army?
If the enemy sees an advantage to be gained but makes no effort to secure it, what does this indicate?
What does clamor by night in the enemy camp betoken?
If there is a disturbance in the enemy camp and their banners and flags are shifted about, what does this indicate?
What is the significance of an enemy army feeding its horses with grain, killing its cattle for food, and not hanging up their cooking-pots?
What does the sight of men whispering together in small knots or speaking in subdued tones point to?
What do too frequent rewards signify about the enemy's condition?
What does it signify when an enemy begins with bluster but then takes fright at your numbers?
When the enemy's troops march up angrily and face your army for a long time without joining battle or leaving, what does the situation demand?
If your troops are no more in number than the enemy, what does Sun Tzu say this means for your strategy?
According to Sun Tzu, what is the fate of a general who exercises no forethought and makes light of his opponents?
What is the consequence if soldiers are punished before they have grown attached to their general?
According to Sun Tzu, what is the 'certain road to victory' in handling soldiers?
What is the outcome if a general shows confidence in his men but always insists on his orders being obeyed?
If you are forced to fight in a salt-marsh, what two things should you have near you, in addition to getting your back to a clump of trees?
According to the commentary on river warfare, why should one not move up-stream to meet the enemy?
Which of the following is NOT listed among the types of terrain that should be left with all possible speed in Chapter 10, section 15?
What does the text advise a commander to do when coming to a hill or a bank?
What general preference do all armies have regarding terrain, according to Sun Tzu?
If, in the neighborhood of your camp, there are hilly country, ponds with aquatic grass, or woods with thick undergrowth, what must be done?
If the enemy keeps aloof and tries to provoke a battle, what is their likely motivation?
If the enemy's place of encampment is easy of access, what are they likely doing?
A few clouds of dust moving to and fro signify what activity?
When the light chariots come out first and take up a position on the wings, what is this a sign of?
When some of the enemy are seen advancing and some retreating, what is this a sign of?
What does it mean if birds gather on any spot in the enemy's area?
If the enemy's officers are angry, what does it mean for the men?
What is the consequence if punishments are not enforced after soldiers have become attached to their general?
How does Sun Tzu advise treating soldiers to ensure victory?
What is the condition of an army if it has received too many punishments?
In river warfare, where should you moor your craft in relation to the enemy?
If you see envoys sent with compliments in their mouths, what is it a sign of?
What does it mean if the enemy's banners and flags are frequently shifted about?