war

If we wish to wrest an advantage from the enemy, we must not fix our minds on that alone, but allow for the possibility of the enemy also doing some harm to us, and let this enter as a factor into our calculations.

We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors.

The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.

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

We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country -- its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps.

The principle on which to manage an army is to set up one standard of courage which all must reach.

When the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak, the result is INSUBORDINATION.

You can be sure of succeeding in your attacks if you only attack places which are undefended.

When the outlook is bright, bring it before their eyes; but tell them nothing when the situation is gloomy.

If he sends reinforcements everywhere, he will everywhere be weak.

When your army has crossed the border, you should burn your boats and bridges, in order to make it clear to everybody that you have no hankering after home.

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

mystify, mislead, and surprise the enemy

the worst calamities that befall an army arise from hesitation

If you do not take opportunity__ to__ advance and reward__ the__ deserving,__ your subordinates will not carry out your commands, and disaster will ensue.

If there is disturbance in the camp, the general's authority is weak._

Rewards for good service should not be deferred a single day.

To the issues of friendship, love, business and war, "surprise" is the optimistic solution.