Swift as the wind. Quiet as the forest. Conquer like the fire. Steady as the mountain

When the leader is morally weak and his discipline not strict, when his instructions and guidance are not enlightened, when there are no consistent rules, neighboring rulers will take advantage of this.

Quickness is the essence of the war.

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.

Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will.

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