The opportunity to secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands

Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle, but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting.

So the principles of warfare are: Do not depend on the enemy not coming, but depend on our readiness against him. Do not depend on the enemy not attacking, but depend on our position that cannot be attacked.

When your weapons are dulled and ardour damped, your strength exhausted and treasure spent, neighboring rulers will take advantage of your distress to act. And even though you have wise counsellors, none will be able to lay good plans for the future. Thus, while we have heard of blundering swiftness in war, we have not yet seen a clever operation that was prolonged.

In warfare, first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle; if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured.

When he pretends to flee, do not pursue.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.