Therefore a victorious army first wins and then seeks battle; a defeated army first battles and then seeks victory.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce. If the enemy's troops march up angrily and remain facing ours for a long time without either joining battle or removing demands, the situation is one that requires great vigilance and circumspection. To begin by bluster, but afterward to take fright at the enemy's numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence.

Until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared

In conflict, straightforward actions generally lead to engagement, surprising actions generally lead to victory.

He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks.

If their forces are substantial, prepare for them; if their forces are strong, avoid them.

The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.