Strength is but one aspect of power.

There is no greater weapon than a prepared mind.

To overcome the intelligent by folly is contrary to the natural order of things; to overcome the foolish by intelligence is in accord with the natural order. To overcome the intelligent by intelligence, however, is a matter of opportunity.

First organize the inner, then organize the outer ... First organize the great, then organize the small. First organize yourself, and then organize others.

Good generals select intelligent officers, thoughtful advisors, and brave subordinates. They oversee their troops like a fierce tiger with wings.

An enlightened ruler doesnot worry about people not knowing him; he worriesabout not knowing people.

Opportunistic relationships can hardly be kept constant. The acquaintance of honorable people, even at a distance, does not add flowers in times of warmth and does not change its leaves in times of cold: it continues unfading through the four seasons, becomes increasingly stable as it passes through ease and danger.