So a military force has no constant formation, water has no constant shape: the ability to gain victory by changing and adapting according to the opponent is called genius.
The opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
Know thy self, know thy enemy. A thousand battles, a thousand victories.
The clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy’s will to be imposed on him.
All warfare is based on deception. There is no place where espionage is not used. Offer the enemy bait to lure him.
Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.
The nature of war is constant change.
He who wishes to fight must first count the cost.
Know thyself, know thy enemy.
Great results can be achieved with small forces.
If I am able to determine the enemy’s dispositions while at the same time I conceal my own, then I can concentrate and he must divide.
Those skilled in attack move as from above the nine-fold heavens. Thus they are capable both of protecting themselves and of gaining complete victory.
So there are five ways of knowing who will win. Those who know when to fight and when not to fight are victorious. Those who discern when to use many or few troops are victorious. Those whose upper and lower ranks have the same desire are victorious.
In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.
Train hard, fight easy.
Freedom is not given – it is taken.
Be polite, be professional, but have a plan to kill everyone you meet.
It is far better to live like a lion for a day than to live like a jackal for a hundred years.
My opponent is my teacher, my ego is my enemy.
Stand up for what is right even if you stand alone.