There is no instance of a nation benefiting from prolonged warfare.

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

One whose troops repeatedly congregate in small groups here and there, whispering together, has lost the masses. One who frequently grants rewards is in deep distress. One who frequently imposes punishments is in great difficulty. One who is at first excessively brutal and then fears the masses is the pinnacle of stupidity.

Act after having made assessments. The one who first knows the measure of far and near wins - this is the rule of armed struggle.

Of all those in the army close to the commander, none is more intimate than the secret agent.

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

As water has no constant form, there are in war no constant conditions.