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

If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler's bidding.

With regard to ground of this nature, be before the enemy in occupying the raised and sunny spots, and carefully guard your line of supplies. Then you will be able to fight with advantage.

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.

Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.

The true objective of war is peace.

Of old the expert in battle would first make himself invincible and then wait for his enemy to expose his vulnerability.