To conquer the enemy without resorting to war is the most desirable. The highest form of generalship is to conquer the enemy by strategy.

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

When torrential water tosses boulders, it is because of its momentum. When the strike of a hawk breaks the body of its prey, it is because of timing.

Those whose upper and lower ranks have the same desire are victorious.

Should one ask: 'how do I cope with a well-ordered enemy host about to attack me?' I reply: seize something he cherishes and he will conform to your desires.

According to my assessment, even if you have many more troops than others, how can that help you to victory?

Those who excel in war first cultivate their own humanity and and maintain their laws and institutions. By these means they make their governments invincible.