Best Art Of War Quotations - Sun Tzu

Think & reflect on the Art of War quotations and sayings explained

Important note: Please read and study word by word. You will not get any advice as wise as this. It will help in your personal life, career, and business.

Here I picked the best of Sun Tzu's quotations and his descendant Sun Bin. There are many more wise quotes you can study further.

Quotations of The Art Of War Strategy table of contents:

• Art Of War Quotations by Sun Tzu

• Art Of War Quotations by Sun Bin

• Sun Tzu's strategy to win in life or business.

Art Of War Quotations by Sun Tzu

1. The Strategic Advantage of Self-Knowledge and Understanding the Enemy

In the Art Of War, Sun Tzu quotes,

Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will not worry about the results of a hundred battles.

This wise statement emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's "enemy" in the context of conflict.

The essence of this quote lies in the idea that those who are well-acquainted with their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of their opponent, will have a significant advantage in any confrontation.

By cultivating a deep understanding of both oneself and the enemy, a strategist can make informed decisions that can lead to successful outcomes without unnecessary strife.

This principle not only applies to military engagements but can also be extended to various competitive scenarios in life and career, including business and personal relationships.

2. The Art of Deception: Sun Tzu's Core Principle in Warfare

Sun Tzu says

All warfare is based on deception.

This is the core principle of the Art Of War. Sun Tzu highlights a critical aspect of strategy: the art of misdirection.

Deception can take many forms, from feigned retreats to misleading intelligence, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the battlefield dynamics.

The ability to deceive the enemy can lead to advantages that might otherwise be unattainable through direct confrontation.

This principle teaches that effective strategists must be adept not only in their own tactics but also in anticipating and countering the deceptions of others.

The implications of this quote extend beyond warfare, suggesting that in various aspects of life, the element of surprise and the ability to conceal one's true intentions can be invaluable assets.

3. Understanding the Costs of War: Sun Tzu's Insight on Strategic Warfare

Sun Tzu quotes,

Those who do not understand the damages of war cannot thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.

This quote is a stark reminder of the brutal truths of conflict. Sun Tzu emphasizes that truly understanding warfare involves not only the tactics for victory but also an awareness of the significant impacts war has on societies, economies, and individuals.

Recognizing the costs of warfare, such as the loss of life, depletion of resources, and long-term societal effects, is crucial for any leader or strategist.

This perspective promotes a thoughtful approach to conflict, urging consideration of peaceful solutions and the pursuit of strategies that reduce destruction and suffering.

Additionally, it highlights the importance of strategies that can quickly subdue the enemy and end the war without the damages that war can cause.

4. Decisive Victory: Sun Tzu's Principle of Swift Warfare

Sun Tzu quotes,

In war, it's all about victory, not prolonged campaigns.

Sun Tzu's statement emphasizes the importance of decisive action in warfare.

He implies that the ultimate objective of any military engagement should be to achieve victory swiftly and efficiently, rather than becoming mired in drawn-out conflicts that drain resources and morale.

Prolonged campaigns can lead to diminishing returns and can wear away the will of both the combatants and the public.

This principle encourages strategists to focus on achieving clear, achievable goals that lead to a swift conclusion of hostilities, thereby preserving strength and resources for future endeavors.

5. Mastering Victory: The Art of Winning Without Fighting

Sun Tzu quotes,

Hence to fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.

This quote represents a fundamental principle of Sun Tzu's philosophy: the highest form of victory is one that is achieved without the need for actual combat.

The ability to subdue an adversary through strategy, diplomacy, or psychological means is portrayed as the epitome of excellence in warfare.

This approach minimizes loss and destruction, preserving resources and lives.

It suggests that the most effective leaders are those who can navigate conflicts through intelligence and foresight rather than brute force, highlighting the importance of strategic thinking and the art of negotiation.

6. Bridging the Gap Between Knowledge and Action: Insights from Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu quotes,

One may know how to conquer without being able to do it.

In this insightful observation, Sun Tzu points to the gap that often exists between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Understanding the principles of warfare and having a plan is one thing; executing that plan successfully in the heat of battle is another challenge altogether.

This quote serves as a reminder that knowledge alone is insufficient; it must be coupled with the ability to act decisively and effectively when the situation demands it.

This principle can be applied to many areas of life, emphasizing the importance of not only learning strategies but also developing the skills and confidence to implement them successfully.

7. Strategic Foresight: Winning Before the Battle Begins

Sun Tzu quotes,

In war, the victorious strategist wins first and then seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and later looks for victory.

This quote illustrates the concept of preparation and foresight in military strategy.

It suggests that the most successful leaders are those who plan meticulously, ensuring that they have the upper hand before engaging in conflict. By securing victory in advance through careful planning and positioning, a strategist can enter the battlefield with confidence and clarity.

In contrast, those who rush into battle without adequate preparation often find themselves at a disadvantage, scrambling to achieve victory after the fact.

This principle highlights the importance of strategic foresight and the need to create conditions that favor success before engaging in any form of competition.

8. Strategic Targeting: Exploiting Weaknesses for Victory

Sun Tzu quotes,

In a battle, avoid the strong and attack what is weak.

Sun Tzu's advice here speaks to the necessity of strategic targeting in warfare.

Rather than confronting an opponent's strengths head-on, which can lead to unnecessary losses, a wise strategist will seek out vulnerabilities and exploit them.

This principle encourages flexibility and adaptability in tactics, urging you as a leader to assess the battlefield critically and make decisions that maximize your chances of success.

The wisdom in this approach extends beyond military conflict, applying to various competitive environments where identifying and capitalizing on weaknesses can yield significant advantages.

9. The Crucial Role of Logistics in Military Success: Insights from Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu quotes,

An army without equipment and provisions cannot survive.

Sounds like common sense, but the statement highlights the critical importance of logistics and supply in military operations.

No matter how skilled or brave an army may be, without the necessary resources—be it food, equipment, or ammunition—survival and effectiveness are impossible.

This fact highlights the need for meticulous planning and preparation in any military campaign, as well as the importance of maintaining a robust supply chain.

The implications of this quote extend beyond the battlefield, reminding leaders in any field of the necessity of ensuring that their teams are well-equipped and supported to achieve their objectives.

10. Vigilance and Readiness: The Strategic Wisdom of Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu quotes,

In The Art of War, always be prepared for the enemy coming. Never assume he will not come. Never presume he will not attack. Make our position unassailable.

This quotation highlights the principle of vigilance and readiness in the face of potential threats.

Do not be complacent!!

Sun Tzu advises that one should never become complacent or underestimate the capabilities of the enemy.

Instead, it is essential to maintain a state of preparedness, anticipating possible attacks and fortifying one's position accordingly.

By making one's defenses strong and unassailable, a leader can deter potential aggressors and safeguard against unforeseen challenges.

This principle is applicable not only in military contexts but also in various aspects of life, emphasizing the value of proactive planning and the importance of being prepared for any eventuality.

Art Of War Quotations by Sun Bin

Sun Bin is a descendant of Sun Tzu. He is a master in The Art of War in his own right. He served as a military strategist during the Warring States period in the state of Qi.

Here are Sun Bin Art Of War quotes.

1. The Strategic Importance of Resource Management in Warfare

In The Art of War by Sun Bin, he said

Do not fight a protracted battle against an enemy whose provisions are enough to outlast you.

This quote serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of logistical considerations in warfare.

Engaging in a prolonged conflict with an enemy who possesses superior resources can lead to significant disadvantages for the attacking force. It underscores the necessity for commanders to assess not only their own supply lines and resources but also those of their adversaries.

A protracted battle can drain a nation’s finances, morale, and manpower, ultimately leading to defeat. Therefore, it is imperative for military leaders to seek decisive engagements that can lead to swift victories rather than becoming entangled in drawn-out conflicts that favor the enemy's endurance.

The wisdom in this advice lies in recognizing the limits of one’s own capabilities and the strategic importance of timing and resource management in military operations.

2. The Importance of Strategic Preparation and Long-term Implications in Warfare

In The Art of War by Sun Bin, he said

The state that wages war without preparation will suffer and the state which is warlike will perish.

Three generations from now is really when one need to worry about the fate of Qi.

This statement speaks to the dire consequences of entering into warfare without adequate planning and preparation.

It highlights the necessity for states to engage in thorough strategic assessments and to cultivate a strong military foundation before embarking on any conflict.

A lack of preparation can lead to chaos on the battlefield, with troops untrained and ill-equipped to face a determined enemy.

Moreover, the phrase "the state which is warlike will perish" serves as a cautionary note about the dangers of a militaristic approach that prioritizes aggression over strategy.

The reference to three generations emphasizes the long-term ramifications of current decisions; the impacts of poorly conceived military actions can echo through time, affecting future generations and the overall stability of the state.

This foresight urges leaders to consider the broader implications of their actions, advocating for a balanced approach that weighs both military readiness and the potential consequences of war.

3. The Power of Timing and Surprise in Military Strategy

In The Art of War by Sun Bin, he said

Strategic advantage is to attack the enemy when he least expects you, catching him unprepared.

This insight underscores the significance of timing and surprise in military strategy.

The element of surprise can be a decisive factor in determining the outcome of a conflict.

By launching an attack when the enemy is unprepared, a commander can exploit vulnerabilities and gain a significant upper hand.

This principle not only applies to the physical act of combat but also to the psychological aspects of warfare, where instilling fear and uncertainty in the enemy can lead to disarray within their ranks.

Effective military leaders must constantly seek to understand the rhythms of their adversaries, identifying moments of weakness or distraction that can be capitalized upon.

This quote encourages commanders to be proactive and innovative in their strategies, emphasizing the need for adaptability and cunning in the face of an ever-changing battlefield landscape.

4. The Crucial Role of Trust in Military Leadership

In The Art of War by Sun Bin, he said

He who does not have the trust of his sovereign should not assume command of the army.

This statement highlights a key idea in military leadership and governance, focusing on how important trust is between a leader and their ruler.

Trust isn't just a personal trait; it's a crucial part that affects how well an army works together.

If a commander doesn't have the ruler's confidence, it can be tough to get the troops to be loyal and committed. Soldiers are more likely to follow a leader who has the backing of their superiors, as this creates a sense of unity and shared goals.

Plus, if a leader isn't trusted by the ruler, it can cause miscommunication and strategy issues, putting the mission at risk.

In war, where decisions can be life-or-death, not having trust can lead to uncertainty and hesitation.

Knowing there are no "blessings" or trust in the commander, it is best not to take the command as the outcome will be disastrous.

So, Sun Bin's point is a reminder of the complex dynamics of power, leadership, and the need for mutual trust to win on the battlefield.

5. Sun Bin's Strategy: Balancing Quick Victories and Sustainable Power

In The Art of War by Sun Bin, he said

The prosperity of the state lies in quick victories, its strength in enabling people to rest and recuperate, and its decline in frequent expeditionary wars.

This statement highlights a strategy emphasizing swift victories in warfare.

Sun Bin, a key military strategist, recognized that a state's prosperity is tied to military outcomes.

Quick victories boost morale and conserve resources, enabling economic and social growth. Successful states can then focus on domestic stability.

Sun Bin also stressed the importance of rest for both military and civilians. A rested army is more effective, and citizens who recover from war contribute better to the economy, maintaining state strength during peace and conflict.

On the other hand, Sun Bin warned against too frequent wars, which drain resources and cause societal unrest.

Continuous warfare leads to economic instability and weakens the state's foundation, risking its long-term security.

Sun Bin's insights remind us of balancing military ambition with sustainable power.

His principles apply to both ancient and modern strategies, guiding leaders to prioritize quick victories and the well-being of populations for a resilient society.

Sun Tzu's strategy to win in life or business.

Your answer is found in the Art Of War.

In The Art Of War, Sun Tzu says,

To fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; Supreme excellence is to subdue the enemy without fighting.

Fighting and conquering takes a lot of hard work, energy, and resources. There are better ways to win your battle. 

MrArtOfWar.com teaches you the strategy to win in life, career, and business.