Prohibit the taking of omens, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared.

Confront them with annihilation, and they will then survive; plunge them into a deadly situation, and they will then live. When people fall into danger, they are then able to strive for victory.

He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces.

If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, the general is to blame. But if his orders are clear, and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fault of their officers.

The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.

If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.

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

In conflict, straightforward actions generally lead to engagement, surprising actions generally lead to victory.

Of all those in the army close to the commander none is more intimate than the secret agent; of all rewards none more liberal than those given to secret agents; of all matters none is more confidential than those relating to secret operations.