There are roads which must not be followed, armies which must not be attacked, towns which must not be besieged, positions which must not be contested, commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed.

It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.

Those who are victorious plan effectively and change decisively. They are like a great river that maintains its course but adjusts its flow.

The good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your army continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans.

Carefully compare the opposing army with your own, so that you may know where strength is superabundant and where it is deficient.

When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporising ground.