Of old the expert in battle would first make himself invincible and then wait for his enemy to expose his vulnerability.

We cannot enter into alliance with neighbouring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country - its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps. We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides.

To fight and conquer in all our battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.

Should one ask: 'how do I cope with a well-ordered enemy host about to attack me?' I reply: seize something he cherishes and he will conform to your desires.

When your opponent gives you an opening, be swift as a hare.

Of all rewards none [is] more liberal than those given to secret agents.

Go into emptiness, strike voids, bypass what he defends hit him where he does not expect you.