War is a matter of vital importance to the state; the province of life or death; the road to survival or ruin. It is mandatory that it be thoroughly studied.

If the enemy has occupied them before you, do not follow him, but retreat and try to entice him away.

The good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills

To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.

Weigh the situation, then move.

To conquer the enemy without resorting to war is the most desirable. The highest form of generalship is to conquer the enemy by strategy.