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

“One mark of a great soldier is that he fight on his own terms or fights not at all.”

“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.”

“Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory is won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.”

“first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle;  if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured”

“He who is prudent and lies in wait for an enemy who is not, will be victorious.”

“Conceal your dispositions, and your condition will remain secret, which leads to victory;  show your dispositions, and your condition will become patent, which leads to defeat.”