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. Therefore, just as water retains no constant shape, so in warfare there are no constant conditions. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born captain.

In peace, prepare for war. In war, prepare for peace.

Opportunities multiply as they are seized.

The true objective of war is peace.

Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.

Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.

Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price.

Engage people with what they expect; it is what they are able to discern and confirms their projections. It settles them into predictable patterns of response, occupying their minds while you wait for the extraordinary moment — that which they cannot anticipate.

Build your opponent a golden bridge to retreat across.

In war, numbers alone confer no advantage. Do not advance relying on sheer military power.

Fear is the true enemy, the only enemy.