If fighting is sure to result in victory, than you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler's bidding.

Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu

Bidding Even Fight Fighting Forbid Must Result Ruler Sure Than Then Though Victory Will You

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If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and know Earth, you may make your victory complete.

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To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful. Everyone calls victory in battle good, but it is not really good.

The one who figures on victory at headquarters before even doing battle is the one who has the most strategic factors on his side.

So it is said that victory can be made.

The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.

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