If their forces are substantial, prepare for them; if their forces are strong, avoid them.

To fight and conquer in all our battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.

Unhappy is the fate of one who tries to win his battles and succeed in his attacks without cultivating the spirit of enterprise, for the result is waste of time and general stagnation.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.