The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy. To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself. Thus the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

The height of strategy, is to attack your opponent's strategy.

Like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more.

If you are far from the enemy, make him believe you are near.

Victory comes from finding opportunities in problems.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.

If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: "Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will." Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.