If the enemy leaves a door open, you must rush in.

In all history, there is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare. Only one who knows the disastrous effects of a long war can realize the supreme importance of rapidity in bringing it to a close.

He who knows things, and in fighting puts his knowledge into practice, will win his battles. He who knows them not, nor practices them, will surely be defeated.

When you shoot a bow and arrow, you aim at the clouds, not because you expect to hit them, but so that you may reach the distant target on the ground.

There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard.

Wait by the river long enough and the body of your enemy will float by you.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.