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

A clever general... avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return. This is the art of studying moods. Disciplined and calm, he awaits the appearance of disorder and hubbub among the enemy. This is the art of retaining self-possession.

The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.

Victory is the main object in war.

Winning isn't enough. The acme of all skill is to defeat your enemy before taking the field.

So it is that good warriors take their stance on ground where they cannot lose, and do not overlook conditions that make an opponent prone to defeat.

War is a matter of vital importance to the state; the province of life or death; the road to survival or ruin. It is mandatory that it be thoroughly studied.