Sun Tzu

"The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy with minimal loss."

"The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim."

"If you set rules upon yourself, your enemy will exploit your weakness."

"Be swift as wind, quiet as forest, fierce as fire, and immovable as mountain."

"Ponder and deliberate before you make a move."

"Know your enemy, know yourself; your victory will never be endangered."

"The art of war is of vital importance to the State, for it is the means by which a ruler maintains his dominions."

"Do not suppose that he who is the enemy of your enemy is your friend."

"When you surround an enemy, leave an outlet for them. Do not press a desperate foe too hard."

"A clever general attracts only the most skilled warriors to his service."

"He who is prudent and lies in wait for an enemy who is not, will be victorious."

"Discipline is the foundation of all victory."

"To ensure an army's loyalty, unite them through shared purpose and honor."

"The art of war is simple: concentrate your strength against the enemy's weakness."

"Speed is the essence of war; take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness."

"A leader leads by example, not by force."

"The ultimate principle of strategy is to settle the issue without ever fighting."

"An army of sheep led by a lion can defeat an army of lions led by a sheep."

"The way of a warrior is acceptance of death."

"To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the highest skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill."

"The supreme excellence is not to win a hundred victories in a hundred battles, but to overcome the resistance of ten thousand men without fighting."

"Subtlety is the essence of greatness."

"The unexpected is the seed of victory."

"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances."

"When capable, appear incapable. When active, inert."

"The wise adapt to circumstances as water molds itself to the container."

"A skilled warrior does not become entangled in the affairs of the unaware."

"The art of war is the greatest pursuit of the brilliant mind."

"Victory is determined by those who understand the conditions of heaven and earth."

"The supreme warrior comprehends the seasons and reads the mind of his opponent."