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

The skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough; hence the institution of gongs and drums... banners and flags. Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point.

The supreme excellence is not to win a hundred victories in a hundred battles. The supreme excellence is to subdue the armies of your enemies without having to fight them.

Probe him and learn where his strength is abundant and where deficient.

The General who in advancing does not seek personal fame, and in withdrawing is not concerned with avoiding punishment, but whose only purpose is to protect the people and promote the best interests of his sovereign, is the precious jewel of the state.