Subjugating the enemy's army without fighting is the true pinnacle of excellence.

Correct your mistake as soon as you have found it.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted.

Do not press an enemy at bay. Prince Fu Ch'ai said: "Wild beasts, when at bay, fight desperately. How much more is this true of men! If they know there is no alternative, they will fight to the death.

We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country.

Who can determine where one ends and the other begins?