710 Quotes by Sun Tzu

If you wait by the river long enough, the bodies of your enemies will float by.

If an enemy has alliances, the problem is grave and the enemy’s position strong; if he has no alliances, the problem is minor and the enemy’s position weak.

Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy’s purpose.

When a general, unable to estimate the enemy’s strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout.

However desperate the situation and circumstances, don’t despair. When there is everything to fear, be unafraid. When surrounded by dangers, fear none of them. When without resources, depend on resourcefulness. When surprised, take the enemy by surprise.

To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills.

The general that hearkens to my counsel and acts upon it, will conquer: let such a one be retained in command! The general that hearkens not to my counsel nor acts upon it, will suffer defeat: – let such a one be dismissed!

Convince your enemy that he will gain very little by attacking you; this will diminish his enthusiasm.

Until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared.