If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

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

If not in the interests of the state, do not act. If you cannot succeed, do not use troops. If you are not in danger, do not fight.

If quick, I survive. If not quick, I am lost. This is death.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak. Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.

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