A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home.

No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.

Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small. The difficult things in this world must be done while they are easy, the greatest things in the world must be done while they are still small. For this reason sages never do what is great, and this is why they achieve greatness.

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

The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.

Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.