There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general: recklessness, which leads to destruction; cowardice, which leads to capture; a hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults; a delicacy of honour, which is sensitive to shame; over-solicitude for his men, which exposes him to worry and trouble.

Subtle and insubstantial, the expert leaves no trace; divinely mysterious, he is inaudible. Thus he is master of his enemy's fate.

If you are far from the enemy, make him believe you are near.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.

In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them.

Be extremely subtle, even to the point of formlessness. Be extremely mysterious, even to the point of soundlessness. Thereby you can be the director of the opponent's fate.

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