Quotes by Sun Tzu (The Art of War)

Sun Tzu was an ancient Chinese military general, strategist and philosopher who is traditionally believed, and who is most likely, to have authored the Art of War, an influential ancient Chinese book on military strategy. Some selected quotes from his book are given here in this post. I hope the reader will like them.

1. Therefore to estimate the enemy situation and to calculate the distances and degree of difficulty of the terrain so as to control victory are virtues of the superior general. Sun Tzu (chapter 10, verse 17).
2. Now the elements of the art of war are first measurement of space ; second estimation of quantities; third calculations;fourth comparison and fifth chances of victory. Sun Tzu (chapter 4, verse 16).
3. Pay heed to nourish the troops; do not unnecessarily fatigue them. Sun Tzu (chapter 11, verse 32).
4. It is because of disposition that a victorious general is able to make his people fight with the effect of pent-up waters. Sun Tzu (chapter 4, verse 20).
5. Conformation of the ground is of the greatest assistance in battle. Sun Tzu (chapter 10, verse 17).
6. Concentrate your forces against the enemy and from a distance of thousand li you can kill his general. Sun Tzu (chapter 11,verse57).
7. When a state is enclosed by three other states its territory is focal. He who gets control of it will gain the support of all-under-Heaven. Sun Tzu (chapter 2, verse 6).
8. Uproar in the east, attack in the west. Mao Tse Tung after Sun Tzu.
9. Attack cities only when there is no alternative. Sun Tzu (chapter 5, verse 7).
10. And as water has no constant form, there are in war no constant conditions. Sun Tzu (chapter 6, verse 29).