As water has no constant form, there are in war no constant conditions.

Now the reason the enlightened prince and the wise general conquer the enemy whenever they move and their achievements surpass those of ordinary men is foreknowledge.

To maintain an army at a distance causes the people to be impoverished.

The one who figures on victory at headquarters before even doing battle is the one who has the most strategic factors on his side.

The skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting.

A sovereign of high character and intelligence must be able to know the right man, should place the responsibility on him, and expect results.

Know thy enemy and know thy self and you will win a hundred battles.