A biography for Sun Tzuhasn’t been written yet.
“He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces.”
“If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.”
“Now the reason the enlightened prince and the wise general conquer the enemy whenever they move and their achievements surpass those of ordinary men is foreknowledge.”
“When the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak, the result is INSUBORDINATION.”
“He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks.”
“He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.”
“We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors.”
“If you do not take opportunity to advance and reward the deserving, your subordinates will not carry out your commands, and disaster will ensue.”
“When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.”
“War is like a fire - if you do not put it out, it will burn itself out.”
“Quickness is the essence of the war.”
“the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.”
“Standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength; attacking, a superabundance of strength.”
“In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good.”
“The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.”
“You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only hold positions that cannot be attacked.”
“To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the enemy's numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence.”
“if you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner”
“Even the finest sword plunged into salt water will eventually rust.”
“The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.”