When orders are consistently trustworthy and observed, the relationship of a commander with his troops is satisfactory.

With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy.

In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them.

When the enemy is relaxed, make them toil. When full, starve them. When settled, make them move.

To persuade your enemy to (retreat) before the fight is to defeat them even before the battle begins. An enemy made ally is no longer an enemy.

If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.

There is no instance of a nation benefiting from prolonged warfare.