ABSTRACT
Whenever engaging an enemy in battle, if the officers and troops courageously advance rather than risk retreat, it is because they fear their commanders instead of the enemy. But if they risk retreat rather than advance, they fear the enemy instead of their commanders. When generals can force their officers and troops to rush into water and tread on fire without flinching, it is their awesomeness and severity that caused it. A tactical principle from the Book of Documents states: "When awesomeness exceeds love, affairs will be successful."
