The business of a general is to kick away the ladder behind soldiers when they have climbed up a height.

If an enemy has alliances, the problem is grave and the enemy's position strong; if he has no alliances, the problem is minor and the enemy's position weak.

What is essential in war is victory, not prolonged operations.

Now a soldier's spirit is keenest in the morning; by noonday it has begun to flag; and in the evening, his mind is only on returning to camp.

If we do not wish to fight, we can prevent the enemy from engaging us even though the lines of our encampment be merely traced out on the ground. All we need to do is to throw something odd and unaccountable in his way.

He who relies solely on warlike measures shall be exterminated; he who relies solely on peaceful measures shall perish.

With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy.