One who speaks deferentially but increases his preparations will advance. One who speaks belligerently and advances hastily will retreat.

Factors in the art of warfare are: First, calculations; second, quantities; third, logistics; fourth, the balance of power; and fifth, the possibility of victory is based on the balance of power.

Now the reason the enlightened prince and the wise general conquer the enemy whenever they move and their achievements surpass those of ordinary men is foreknowledge.

If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.

Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.

There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard.There are not more than five primary colors, yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of them yield more flavors than can ever be tasted.

Kill one, terrify a thousand.