“2,500 years ago, Sun Tzu wrote this classic book of military strategy based on Chinese warfare and military thought. Since then, all levels of the military around the world have continued to use the teachings of Sun Tzu. Much of the text notes how to outsmart one's opponent—fighting and winning wars without actually having to do battle.
In recent years, this text has become the essential strategy guide for use in business, politics, law, and everyday life. The Art of War is a book which should be used to gain advantage of opponents in the boardroom and battlefield alike.”
Note: We recommend this translation by Gagliardi. It’s not only a multi-award winner, but a complete version with what appears to be more accurate (& readable) translation.
Don’t think the translation makes that much of a difference?
Here’s a good example we compiled which compares the same 3 lines:
Gagliardi translation—the version we recommend
Do not entice the enemy when their ranks are orderly.
You must not attack when their formations are solid.
This is how you master adaptation.
Ames translation
Do not intercept an enemy that is perfectly uniform in its array of banners;
do not launch the attack on an enemy that is full and disciplined in its formations. This is the way to manage changing conditions.
Clavell/Giles translation
To refrain from intercepting an enemy whose banners are in perfect order,
to refrain from attacking an army drawn up in calm and confident array—
this is the art of studying circumstances.
Cleary translation
Avoiding confrontation with orderly ranks
and not attacking great formations
is mastering adaptation.
Griffith translation
They do not engage an enemy that is advancing with well-ordered banners,
nor whose formations are in impressive army.
This is control of the factor of changing circumstances.
Kaufman translation
Never attack if you see the enemy in prime condition
and his appearance is strong and steady.
His organization may be stronger than yours and you will need to replan your strategy. Note: This version seems to be incomplete skipping over & leaving out many lines!
Sawyer translation
Do not intercept well-ordered flags;
do not attack well-ordered formations.
This is the way to control changes.
What a huge difference & you can clearly see why we recommend the Gagliardi translation!
(A special thank you to book club member, Sena Karataşlı for the group read suggestion.)