In conflict, straightforward actions generally lead to engagement, surprising actions generally lead to victory.

It is according to the shapes that I lay the plans for victory, but the multitude does not comprehend this. Although everyone can see the outward aspects, none understands the way in which I have created victory.

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

If the enemy opens the door, you must race in.

Hostile armies may face each other for years, striving for the victory which is decided in a single day. This being so, to remain in ignorance of the enemy's condition simply because one grudges the outlay of a hundred ounces of silver in honors and emoluments, is the height of inhumanity.

Spies cannot be usefully employed without a certain intuitive sagacity.

Without harmony in the State, no military expedition can be undertaken; without harmony in the army, no battle array can be formed.