Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle, but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting.

Nothing is more difficult than the art of maneuvering for advantageous positions.

He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

He whose ranks are united in purpose will be victorious.

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.

All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.

Keep their friends close and their enemies closer.