Subtle and insubstantial, the expert leaves no trace; divinely mysterious, he is inaudible. Thus he is master of his enemy's fate.

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

According to my assessment, even if you have many more troops than others, how can that help you to victory?

He who is prudent and lies in wait for an enemy who is not, will be victorious.

They [spies] cannot be properly managed without benevolence and straightforwardness.

If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, the general is to blame. But if his orders are clear, and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fault of their officers.

In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good.