Where the army is, prices are high; when prices rise the wealth of the people is exhausted.

When you are ignorant of the enemy but know yourself, your chances of winning or losing are equal.

Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and you know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you now Heaven and you know Earth, you may make your victory complete.

For the wise man delights in establishing his merit, the brave man likes to show his courage in action, the covetous man is quick at seizing advantages, and the stupid man has no fear of death.

A clever general... avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return. This is the art of studying moods. Disciplined and calm, he awaits the appearance of disorder and hubbub among the enemy. This is the art of retaining self-possession.

The successful person has unusual skill at dealing with conflict and ensuring the best outcome for all.

Opportunities increase as they are taken.