Invincibility is in oneself, and vulnerability is in the opponent. Invincibility is a matter of defense, vulnerability is a matter of attack. Therefore skillful warriors are able to be invincible, but they cannot cause opponents to be vulnerable. That is why it is said that victory is discerned and not manufactured.

If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner

All wars are won or lost before they are ever fought.

The value of time, that is of being a little ahead of your opponent, often provides greater advantage than superior numbers or greater resources.

When a general, unable to estimate the enemy's strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout.

Those who are victorious plan effectively and change decisively. They are like a great river that maintains its course but adjusts its flow.

The King is only fond of words, and cannot translate them into deeds.