Few names in military theology are more respected than Sun Tzu. Sun Tzu is famous as the author of “Art of War” and a Chinese military strategist, philosopher, general, and writer. His book is said to have greatly impacted Western and East Asian philosophy and military tactics. As a revered figure, it’s only right to look at some of his most profound quotes and see if we can also benefit from his wisdom.
Don’t Fight
“He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.”
If there is one thing Sun Tzu hopes to get across, it is that sometimes the best way to win is not to fight.
No Battle
“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.”
Sun Tzu was a fan of not fighting, which was the quickest way to victory for all parties.
Count the Cost
“Who wishes to fight must first count the cost.”
Sun Tzu was not a fan of war unless necessary.
Avoiding Battle
“The wise warrior avoids the battle.”
Once again, it’s clear Sun Tzu avoided battle at all costs.
Opportunities
“Opportunities multiply as they are seized.”
The more opportunities you have, the more you can accomplish.
Convincing Enemies
“Convince your enemy that he will gain very little by attacking you; this will diminish his enthusiasm.”
The more you convince your enemy not to attack, the more his morale will erode.
Treating Men Good
“Treat your men as you would your own beloved sons. And they will follow you into the deepest valley.”
Sun Tzu was one of the first military leaders to praise treating soldiers as well as possible.
Art of War
“The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.”
Sun Tzu makes it a point to continue emphasizing his desire not to see war unless it’s the only option.
Ignorance
“If ignorant both of your enemy and yourself, you are certain to be in peril.”
If you go into battle blindly, you are certain to lose.
War is Important
“The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is a matter of life and death, a road to either safety or to run.”
Unfortunately, war is essential in certain cases for people to survive.
Decision Making
“The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to destroy its victim.”
Sun Tzu was well aware of the importance of decision-making and how it could impact the outcome of a battle.
Don’t Fight
“Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.”
In this case, Sun Tzu knew that not moving in battle was the best move without something to be gained.
Know Your Victory
“If fighting is sure to result in victory, then 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.”
In some cases, those not on the battlefield are the ones you should listen to the least.
Move Fast
“Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt.”
Your actions must be swift enough to confuse your enemy to win a battle.
Comparing Armies
“Carefully compare the opposing army with your own, so that you may know where strength is superabundant and where it is deficient.”
Knowing the strengths of your army is the only way to win.
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