War is a matter of vital importance to the state.

All war is deception.

Every battle is won before it is fought.

You cannot know if you will be successful or not. You can only prepare for battle and it must be done with all of your heart and with all of your consciousness. In that manner, you will have an edge.

All wars are won or lost before they are ever fought.

All warfare is based on deception. Therefore, when capable, feign incapacity; when active, inactivity. When near, make it appear that you are far away; when far away, that you are to lure him; feign disorder and strike him. When he concentrates, prepare against him; where he is strong, avoid him. Anger his general and confuse him. Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.

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