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

Place your army in deadly peril, and it will survive; plunge it into desperate straits, and it will come off in safety.

Winning Strategists are certain of triumph before seeking a challenge. Losing Strategists are certain to challenge before seeking a triumph.

If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.

Weigh the situation, then move.

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.

In war, numbers alone confer no advantage. Do not advance relying on sheer military power.