The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.

If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight.

Invincibility lies in the defense; the possibility of victory in the attack.

If this is long delayed, weapons are blunted and morale depressed.

Correct your mistake as soon as you have found it.

The expert in battle seeks his victory from strategic advantage and does not demand it from his men.

Without harmony in the State, no military expedition can be undertaken; without harmony in the army, no battle array can be formed.