So a military force has no constant formation, water has no constant shape: the ability to gain victory by changing and adapting according to the opponent is called genius.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory. Indirect tactics, efficiently applied, are inexhaustible as Heaven and Earth, unending as the flow of rivers and streams; like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more.

The difficulty of tactical maneuvering consists in turning the devious into the direct, and misfortune into gain.

Perfection in war lies in so sapping your opponents will that he surrenders without fighting.

Sweat more during peace: bleed less during war

If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.