Those who excel in war first cultivate their own humanity and and maintain their laws and institutions. By these means they make their governments invincible.

There has never been a protracted war from which a country has benefitted.

Victory comes from finding opportunities in problems.

Use humility to make the enemy haughty. Tire them by flight. Cause division among them. When they are unprepared, attack and make your move when they do not expect it.

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

If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.

It is the rule in war, if ten times the enemy's strength, surround them; if five times, attack them; if double, be able to divide them; if equal, engage them; if fewer, defend against them; if weaker, be able to avoid them.