710 Quotes by Sun Tzu

He who knows when he can fight and when he cannot, will be victorious.

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

You can prevent your opponent from defeating you through defense, but you cannot defeat him without taking the offensive.

What enables the wise sovereign and the good general to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond the reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge.

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

The general must be the first in the toils and fatigues of the army. In the heat of summer he does not spread his parasol nor in the cold of winter don thick clothing. In dangerous places he must dismount and walk. He waits until the army's wells have been dug and only then drinks; until the army's food is cooked before he eats; until the army's fortifications have been completed, to shelter himself.

Ponder and deliberate before you make a move.

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

One who speaks deferentially but increases his preparations will advance. One who speaks belligerently and advances hastily will retreat.