The general that hearkens to my counsel and acts upon it, will conquer: let such a one be retained in command! The general that hearkens not to my counsel nor acts upon it, will suffer defeat: - let such a one be dismissed!

There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.

Swift as the wind. Quiet as the forest. Conquer like the fire. Steady as the mountain

Perfection in war lies in so sapping your opponents will that he surrenders without fighting.

Getting people to fight by letting the force of momentum work is like rolling logs and rocks. Logs and rocks are still when in a secure place, but roll on an incline; they remain stationary if square, they roll if round. Therefore, when people are skillfully led into battle, the momentum is like that of round rocks rolling down a high mountain - this is force.

War is a matter of vital importance to the state; the province of life or death; the road to survival or ruin. It is mandatory that it be thoroughly studied.

The clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy's will to be imposed on him.