There are routes not to be followed, armies not to be attacked, citadels not to be besieged, territory not to be fought over.

The one who figures on victory at headquarters before even doing battle is the one who has the most strategic factors on his side.

It is only the enlightened ruler and the wise general who will use the highest intelligence of the army for the purposes of spying, and thereby they achieve great results.

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

We may distinguish six kinds of terrain, to wit: (1) Accessible ground; (2) entangling ground; (3) temporising ground; (4) narrow passes; (5) precipitous heights; (6) positions at a great distance from the enemy.

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

If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight.