Until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared

Weigh the situation, then move.

All men can see these tactics whereby I conquer, but what none can see is the strategy out of which victory is evolved.

If not in the interests of the state, do not act. If you cannot succeed, do not use troops. If you are not in danger, do not fight.

Attack where he is unprepared; sally forth when he does not expect you.

In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good.

The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.