Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.

The true objective of war is peace.

The supreme excellence is not to win a hundred victories in a hundred battles. The supreme excellence is to subdue the armies of your enemies without having to fight them.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.

These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible post.

The control of large numbers is possible, and like unto that of small numbers, if we subdivide them.