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.
Even the finest sword plunged into salt water will eventually rust.
If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.
He who knows when he can fight and when he cannot, will be victorious.
There has never been a protracted war from which a country has benefited.
If you are far from the enemy, make him believe you are near.
