Quote #34

The ultimate in disposing one's troops is to be without ascertainable shape. Then the most penetrating spies cannot pry in nor can the wise lay plans against you.

More from Sun Tzu

  1. The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.
  2. There is no instance of a nation benefitting from prolonged warfare.
  3. The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.
  4. Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat fir…
  5. The general who wins the battle makes many calculations in his temple before the battle is fought. The general who loses makes but few calc…
  6. Thus, what is of supreme importance in war is to attack the enemy's strategy.
  7. The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do g…
  8. And therefore those skilled in war bring the enemy to the field of battle and are not brought there by him.

All Sun Tzu quotes