The skillful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan. Now the shuai-jan is a snake that is found in the Ch'ang mountains. Strike at its head, and you will be attacked by its tail; strike at its tail, and you will be attacked by its head; strike at its middle, and you will be attacked by head and tail both.

If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.

In peace prepare for war, in war prepare for peace. The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence under no circumstances can it be neglected.

Don't flail against the world, use it. Flexibility is the operative principle in the art of war.

Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.

To ... not prepare is the greatest of crimes; to be prepared beforehand for any contingency is the greatest of virtues.

If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.