Original artwork, not a still
If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler's bidding.
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
The passage puts the prospect of victory above obedience. If a fight is certain to be won, one should fight even when the ruler forbids it; if it cannot be won, one should refuse even when ordered. Judgment about results outranks a ruler's instructions.
Context reviewed
