What the ancients called a clever fighter is one who not only wins, but excels in winning with ease.

Military tactics are like unto water; for water in its natural course runs away from high places and hastens downwards... Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing. Therefore, just as water retains no constant shape, so in warfare there are no constant conditions. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born captain.

It is the business of a general to be serene and inscrutable, impartial and self-controlled.

Amid the turmoil and tumult of battle, there may be seeming disorder and yet no real disorder at all.

Set the troops to their tasks without imparting your designs.

Wait by the river long enough and the body of your enemy will float by you.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.