Sun Tzu:

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 first fights and thereafter looks for victory.

— Sun Tzu Ancient

The Art of War

Context

The Art of War, Chapter 4: Tactical Dispositions

Date / Period

c. 5th Century BC

Source

https://www.gutenberg.org/files/132/132-h/132-h.htm

Verification

Unverifiable

Explanation

Found in 1 providers: grok

Method

Cross Reference

Sources Checked

1 source

More from Sun Tzu

"There are not more than five primary colors, yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever be seen."

Humorous

"Avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak."

Controversial

"The ultimate in warfare is to attack the enemy's plans."

Shocking

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

Strange & Unusual

"If you are to be strong, you must know how to be weak."