How to Read “始めは処女の如く後は脱兎の如し”
Hajime wa shojo no gotoku nochi wa datto no gotoshi
Meaning of “始めは処女の如く後は脱兎の如し”
This proverb represents a strategic pattern of behavior for accomplishing things. It means to initially behave cautiously and modestly like a virgin, then when the time is ripe, make swift decisions and take action like an escaping rabbit.
The “virgin” here, in classical language, means “an innocent person unfamiliar with the world,” referring to a harmless existence that doesn’t arouse suspicion. On the other hand, “escaping rabbit” expresses taking lightning-fast action with split-second judgment, like a rabbit escaping from a trap. In other words, it teaches a two-stage strategy: during the preparation phase, remain inconspicuous and carefully build up strength, then when opportunity comes, act with full force without hesitation. This approach can be effectively applied in various modern situations, such as expanding new business ventures or building trust in human relationships. This proverb teaches us that success sometimes requires the patience to wait for opportunities and sometimes the courage to act boldly.
Origin and Etymology
This proverb originates from a passage in the “Nine Terrains” chapter of the Chinese military treatise “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu, which states “At first be like a virgin, so the enemy opens his door, then be like an escaping rabbit, so the enemy cannot resist.” This was written as tactical theory, meaning that at the beginning of battle, appear quiet and harmless like a virgin, and when the enemy lets down their guard and opens their gates, act as swiftly as an escaping rabbit so the enemy has no time to defend.
Sun Tzu was a military strategist from China’s Spring and Autumn period around the 6th century BCE, and his work “The Art of War” is known as the world’s oldest military treatise. This book is not merely a technical manual for warfare, but explains the fundamental principles of strategic thinking, and is still applied today in business and life philosophy.
It was introduced to Japan between the Heian and Kamakura periods and was read as an important educational text among the warrior class. Particularly during the Warring States period, many military commanders are said to have loved reading this book and applied it to actual tactics. This proverb also emerged from such military contexts and eventually came to be widely used as general worldly wisdom and life lessons.
Usage Examples
- In new product development, proceeding with the spirit of “Beginning is like virgin, afterward is like escaping rabbit” is the secret to success.
- She’s usually quiet, but when the time comes, she acts with the spirit of “Beginning is like virgin, afterward is like escaping rabbit.”
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has changed significantly and is often misunderstood in usage. Rather than the original meaning of strategic two-stage action, it’s frequently used to express personality changes, such as “initially being shy but becoming proactive once comfortable.”
This misuse has particularly spread due to the influence of SNS and internet culture. However, understanding the original meaning shows that this strategy is extremely effective in today’s business environment.
Looking at startup company growth strategies, they follow exactly what this proverb teaches. Start small, carefully observe market reactions, then scale up rapidly once you feel a positive response. This is precisely the concept of modern “lean startup” methodology.
Also, in personal career development, the attitude of initially learning humbly in new workplaces or environments, building trust relationships, and then demonstrating one’s abilities remains an important life skill. Precisely because we live in an information society, both the ability to discern timing and the action power to seize opportunities are required.
When AI Hears This
Steve Jobs’ iPhone launch was the perfect embodiment of this strategy. Until January 2007, Apple only announced they were “developing a revolutionary product,” revealing absolutely no specific details. Competitors remained on high alert, yet had no idea what they should actually be watching for. Then came the moment of revelation—Jobs unveiled a device that combined “a phone, an iPod, and an internet communications device” into one, completely transforming the smartphone market overnight.
We see the same pattern in modern social media marketing. Successful influencers maintain modest, everyday posts while strategically building up to major announcements that capture massive attention all at once. Netflix follows this playbook with new series too—during production, they release minimal information, then unleash trailers and cast details simultaneously just before launch, dominating the conversation.
The core of this strategy lies in “information asymmetry.” By preventing others from grasping your true capabilities or plans, you make it nearly impossible for them to prepare countermeasures, securing a decisive advantage when it matters most. Whether on ancient battlefields or in modern boardrooms, the principle remains unchanged: whoever controls information ultimately claims victory. In our digital age, this 2,500-year-old wisdom has become an even sharper weapon.
Lessons for Today
What this proverb teaches modern people is that success requires both “the power to wait” and “the power to act.” While modern society tends to emphasize speed, rushing everything isn’t necessarily the answer.
What’s important is not underestimating the preparation period. When we constantly see glamorous success stories on social media, we want immediate results, but truly valuable things need time to develop. In the initial “like a virgin” stage, properly building foundations, establishing trust, and accumulating strength leads to later breakthroughs.
And when opportunity comes, we also need the courage to act without hesitation. If we wait until perfect preparation is complete, we’ll miss our chances. The instantaneous power to move “like an escaping rabbit” can only be demonstrated through daily preparation.
You too might currently be in a stage of preparing for something. Or perhaps you’re facing a timing when you should take action. Whichever stage you’re in, remember this proverb. It will surely bring greater depth and strategic thinking to your life.
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