“Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.”

Move swift as the Wind and closely-formed as the Wood. Attack like the Fire and be still as the Mountain.

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.

Great results, can be achieved with small forces.

Rouse him, and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.

Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.

Do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat.

Know thy self, know thy enemy. A thousand battles, a thousand victories.

When the outlook is bright, bring it before their eyes; but tell them nothing when the situation is gloomy.

When the outlook is bright, bring it before their eyes; but tell them nothing when the situation is gloomy.

If the mind is willing, the flesh could go on and on without many things.

When your army has crossed the border, you should burn your boats and bridges, in order to make it clear to everybody that you have no hankering after home.

If there is disturbance in the camp, the general’s authority is weak.

Know yourself and you will win all battles

The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.

All warfare is based on deception.