Perfection in war lies in so sapping your opponents will that he surrenders without fighting.

A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

Until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared

For to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill.

If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.

Convince your enemy that he will gain very little by attacking you; this will diminish his enthusiasm

In warfare, there are no constant conditions. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent will succeed and win.