Weigh the situation, then move.

In all history, there is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare. Only one who knows the disastrous effects of a long war can realize the supreme importance of rapidity in bringing it to a close.

With regard to precipitous heights, if you are beforehand with your adversary, you should occupy the raised and sunny spots, and there wait for him to come up.

What is of the greatest importance in war is extraordinary speed: One cannot afford to neglect opportunity.

Victory is reserved for those who are willing to pay its price.

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

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.