Keep your friends close and your enemies even closer.

Management of many is the same as management of few. It is a matter of organization.

If I am able to determine the enemy's dispositions while at the same time I conceal my own, then I can concentrate and he must divide.

The best general is the one who never fights.

As water shapes its flow in accordance with the ground, so an army manages its victory in accordance with the situation of the enemy.

In warfare, first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle; if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured.

The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.