Making no mistakes is what establishes the certainty of victory, for it means conquering an enemy that is already defeated.

The skilful employer of men will employ the wise man, the brave man, the covetous man, and the stupid man.

No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.

A battle avoided cannot be lost.

Confront them with annihilation, and they will then survive; plunge them into a deadly situation, and they will then live. When people fall into danger, they are then able to strive for victory.

In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.

Birds rising in flight is a sign that the enemy is lying in ambush; when the wild animals are startled and flee he is trying to take you unaware.