"The art of war is of vital importance to the State. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected."

"Never venture to move, unless to gain a decided advantage; never do battle, unless the stake is important."

"In war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak."

"If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, then the general is to blame. But if orders are clear and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fau…"

"He who exercises no forethought but makes light of his opponents is sure to be captured by them."