Sun Tzu Quotes

If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.

Wheels of justice gind slow but grind fine

There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general:
(1) Recklessness, which leads to destruction;
(2) cowardice, which leads to capture;
(3) a hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults;
(4) a delicacy of honor which is sensitive to shame;
(5) over-solicitude for his men, which exposes him to worry and trouble.

The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared.

Plan for what it is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.

Never venture, never win!

Disorder came from order, fear came from courage, weakness came from strength.

Every battle is won before it’s ever fought.

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

Be where your enemy is not.

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

Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will.

The skillful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan. Now the shuai-jan is a snake that is found in the Ch'ang mountains. Strike at its head, and you will be attacked by its tail; strike at its tail, and you will be attacked by its head; strike at its middle, and you will be attacked by head and tail both.