Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price.

The ultimate in disposing one's troops is to be without ascertainable shape. Then the most penetrating spies cannot pry in nor can the wise lay plans against you.

Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and you know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you now Heaven and you know Earth, you may make your victory complete.

In war, numbers alone confer no advantage. Do not advance relying on sheer military power.

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

Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your army continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans.

To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.