This does not mean that the enemy is to be allowed to escape. The object is to make him believe that there is a road to safety, and thus prevent his fighting with the courage of despair. After that, you may crush him.
No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.
Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy’s plans, the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy’s forces, the next in order is to attack the enemy’s army in the field, and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities.
If our soldiers are not overburdened with money, it is not because they have a distaste for riches; if their lives are not unduly long, it is not because they are disinclined to longevity.
He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign.
If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; whereas death is certain if you cling to your corner.
When I have won a victory I do not repeat my tactics but respond to circumstances in an infinite variety of ways.
The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.
Correct your mistake as soon as you have found it.
Those who excel in war first cultivate their own humanity and and maintain their laws and institutions. By these means they make their governments invincible.
Subtle and insubstantial, the expert leaves no trace; divinely mysterious, he is inaudible. Thus he is master of his enemy’s fate.
Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.
Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price.
If the enemy opens the door, you must race in.
Those who are victorious plan effectively and change decisively. They are like a great river that maintains its course but adjusts its flow.
He who relies solely on warlike measures shall be exterminated; he who relies solely on peaceful measures shall perish.
In conflict, straightforward actions generally lead to engagement, surprising actions generally lead to victory.
The skilful employer of men will employ the wise man, the brave man, the covetous man, and the stupid man.
Of old the expert in battle would first make himself invincible and then wait for his enemy to expose his vulnerability.
Attack is the secret of defense; defense is the planning of an attack.