The Original Thirty-Six Stratagems Contemporary Maxims 1 Fool the Emperor and Cross the Sea Act in the open, but hide your true intentions. 2 Besiege Wei to Rescue Zhao Attack the enemy’s vulnerable area. 3 Kill with a Borrowed Knife Attack using the strength of an ally. 4 Await the Exhausted Enemy at Your Ease Exercise patience and wear the enemy down. 5 Loot a Burning House Hit the enemy when he is down. 6 Clamor in the East while attacking in the West
