One need not destroy one's enemy. One need only destroy his willingness to engage.

To a surrounded enemy, you must leave a way of escape.

If the mind is willing, the flesh could go on and on without many things.

Should one ask: 'how do I cope with a well-ordered enemy host about to attack me?' I reply: seize something he cherishes and he will conform to your desires.

Hence that general is skilful in attack whose opponent does not know what to defend; and he is skilful in defense whose opponent does not know what to attack.

When one treats people with benevolence, justice and righteousness, and reposes confidence in them, the army will be united in mind and all will be happy to serve their leaders.

It is the business of a general to be serene and inscrutable, impartial and self-controlled.