Set the troops to their tasks without imparting your designs.

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

The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak. Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.

What the ancients called a clever fighter is one who not only wins, but excels in winning with ease.

Secret operations are essential in war; upon them the army relies to make its every move.

The opportunity to secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands