Prohibit the taking of omens, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared.

Thus those skilled in war subdue the enemy's army without battle .... They conquer by strategy.

You cannot know if you will be successful or not. You can only prepare for battle and it must be done with all of your heart and with all of your consciousness. In that manner, you will have an edge.

Like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more.

All men can see these tactics whereby I conquer, but what none can see is the strategy out of which victory is evolved.

Victory is the main object in war.

When strong, avoid them. If of high morale, depress them. Seem humble to fill them with conceit. If at ease, exhaust them. If united, separate them. Attack their weaknesses. Emerge to their surprise.