4. Tactical Dispositions
7
The general who is skilled in defense hides in the most secret recesses of the earth; #
Literally, "hides under the ninth earth," which is a metaphor indicating the utmost secrecy and concealment, so that the enemy may not know his whereabouts."
he who is skilled in attack flashes forth from the topmost heights of heaven. #
Another metaphor, implying that he falls on his adversary like a thunderbolt, against which there is no time to prepare. This is the opinion of most of the commentators.
Thus on the one hand we have ability to protect ourselves; on the other, a victory that is complete. #