Laying Plans (Shi Ji)
Original Content
Warfare is a matter of vital importance to the State, a matter of life and death, the road to survival or ruin. It is mandatory that it be thoroughly examined. Therefore, measure it in terms of five fundamental factors and comparisons to seek out the true nature of the situation: first, Moral Law; second, Heaven; third, Earth; fourth, Command; fifth, Doctrine.
Description
The term 'Ji' refers to calculation and measurement rather than mere ruses. It emphasizes comparing the strengths and weaknesses of both sides through five factors and seven accounts before war to determine the probability of victory.
Related Hexagrams
Hexagram Qian (The Creative): 'Supreme Success.' Macro-level coordination, the beginning of the grand scheme, and strategic positioning.
Hexagram Kun (The Receptive): 'Sustaining all things with deep virtue.' Represents 'Earth' among the five factors—the foundation of survival and resource carrying.
Hexagram Lin (Approach): 'Signs of danger in the eighth month.' Emphasizes inspection, supervision, and predicting future risks.
Hexagram Guan (Contemplation): 'The ablution has been made, but not yet the offering.' Observing the enemy's strength and weakness to find the truth.
Hexagram Zhong Fu (Inner Truth): 'Faith reaching even to pigs and fishes.' Represents Moral Law—harmony between the people and the leader.