The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.

O divine art of subtlety and secrecy! Through you we learn to be invisible, through you inaudible and hence we can hold the enemy's fate in our hands.

When your opponent gives you an opening, be swift as a hare.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

Opportunities increase as they are taken.

To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful. Everyone calls victory in battle good, but it is not really good.

Who can determine where one ends and the other begins?