To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful... It does not take much strength to lift a hair, it does not take sharp eyes to see the sun and moon, it does not take sharp ears to hear the thunderclap.

Subjugating the enemy's army without fighting is the true pinnacle of excellence.

Of all rewards none [is] more liberal than those given to secret agents.

When the enemy is relaxed, make them toil. When full, starve them. When settled, make them move.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.

Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.

Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy's purpose.