Unless you enter the tiger's lair, you cannot get hold of the tiger's cub's.

The general who wins a battle makes many calculations in his temple ere the battle is fought. The general who loses a battle makes but few calculations beforehand. Thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all! It is by attention to this point that I can foresee who is likely to win or lose.

Rapidity is the essence of war.

Without harmony in the State, no military expedition can be undertaken; without harmony in the army, no battle array can be formed.

If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.

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

In warfare, first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle; if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured.