When torrential water tosses boulders, it is because of its momentum. When the strike of a hawk breaks the body of its prey, it is because of timing.

To plan secretly, to move surreptitiously, to foil the enemy's intentions and balk his schemes, so that at last the day may be won without shedding a drop of blood.

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

All warfare is based on deception. Therefore, when capable, feign incapacity; when active, inactivity. When near, make it appear that you are far away; when far away, that you are to lure him; feign disorder and strike him. When he concentrates, prepare against him; where he is strong, avoid him. Anger his general and confuse him. Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.

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

He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

Therefore the good fighter will be terrible in his onset, and prompt in his decision.