“The skillful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan. Now the shuai-jan is a snake that is found in the Ch'ang mountains. Strike at its head, and you will be attacked by its tail; strike at its tail, and you will be attacked by its head; strike at its middle, and you will be attacked by head and tail both.”

“You can be sure of succeeding in your attacks if you only attack places which are undefended.”

“When an invading force crosses a river in its onward march, do not advance to meet it in mid-stream.  It will be best to let half the army get across, and then deliver your attack.”

“Attack is the secret of defense; defense is the planning of an attack.”

“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.”

“You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only hold positions that cannot be attacked.”