If I am able to determine the enemy's dispositions while at the same time I conceal my own, then I can concentrate and he must divide.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.

A warrior who is prepared to fight must also be prepared to die.

In warfare, first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle; if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured.

The essential factor of military success is speed, that is taking advantage of others' unpreparedness or lack of foresight, their failure to catch up, going by routes they do not expect, attacking where they are not on guard. This you cannot accomplish with hesitation.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.