Spies are a most important element in water, because on them depends an army's ability to move.

If we do not wish to fight, we can prevent the enemy from engaging us even though the lines of our encampment be merely traced out on the ground. All we need to do is to throw something odd and unaccountable in his way.

No nation has ever benefited from a prolonged war.

Without subtle ingenuity of mind, one cannot make certain of the truth of their reports.

When you are ignorant of the enemy but know yourself, your chances of winning or losing are equal.

Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy's purpose.

All warfare is based on deception. Therefore, when capable, feign incapacity; when active, inactivity. When near, make it appear that you are far away; when far away, that you are to lure him; feign disorder and strike him. When he concentrates, prepare against him; where he is strong, avoid him. Anger his general and confuse him. Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.