When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful... It does not take much strength to lift a hair, it does not take sharp eyes to see the sun and moon, it does not take sharp ears to hear the thunderclap.

In war, numbers alone confer no advantage. Do not advance relying on sheer military power.

When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard.

Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home.

In warfare, there are no constant conditions. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent will succeed and win.

It is through the dispositions of an army that its condition may be discovered. Conceal your dispositions, and your condition will remain secret, which leads to victory,; show your dispositions, and your condition will become patent, which leads to defeat.