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

The control of a large force is the same principle as the control of a few men: it is merely a question of dividing up their numbers.

It is according to the shapes that I lay the plans for victory, but the multitude does not comprehend this. Although everyone can see the outward aspects, none understands the way in which I have created victory.

Probe him and learn where his strength is abundant and where deficient.

Who can determine where one ends and the other begins?

The good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

It is ten thousand times cheaper to pay the best spies lavishly than even a tiny army poorly.