He who wishes to fight must first count the cost
Prohibit the taking of omens, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared.
Hence the experienced soldier, once in motion, is never bewildered; once he has broken camp, he is never at a loss.
No nation has ever benefited from a prolonged war.
To capture an enemies army is better than to destroy it.
To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills