If you are strong, appear weak. But if you are weak, appear strong.

When the enemy's envoy's speak in humble terms, but continues his preparations, he will advance. When their language is deceptive but the enemy pretentiously advances, he will retreat. When the envoys speak in apologetic terms, he wishes a respite. When without a previous understanding the enemy asks for a truce, he is plotting. When the enemy sees an advantage but does not advance to seize it, he is fatigued.

In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.

When orders are consistently trustworthy and observed, the relationship of a commander with his troops is satisfactory.

If you know both yourself and your enemy, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss.

For the wise man delights in establishing his merit, the brave man likes to show his courage in action, the covetous man is quick at seizing advantages, and the stupid man has no fear of death.

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