Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu

The warrior-philosopher and master strategist Sun Tzu, about whom little is known, compiled The Art of War more than two thousand years ago. Legend has it that he was known for the brilliant campaigns he led around the time of Confucius. His work was memorized and passed down orally, before eventually being copied onto bamboo strips and passed around.

Sun Tzu

The warrior-philosopher and master strategist Sun Tzu, about whom little is known, compiled The Art of War more than two thousand years ago. Legend has it that he was known for the brilliant campaigns he led around the time of Confucius. His work was memorized and passed down orally, before eventually being copied onto bamboo strips and passed around.

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GUIDES

Thomas Cleary’s Translations of The Art of War, Strategy, and Martial Arts: A Reader’s Guide

Thomas Cleary

Thomas Cleary (1949—2021) was one of the twentieth century’s greatest translators of Asian classics. He was extremely prolific, translating and authoring countless works. Shambhala Publications has published over sixty. His books have sold millions of copies and his translations have in turn been translated into over twenty languages worldwide. His first published project, in collaboration with his brother J.C. Cleary, was the classic Blue Cliff Record, that great collection of koans.

Cleary explored the classics of Asian literature on strategy, power, and martial arts—works stemming from Confucian, Taoist, Buddhist, and earlier traditions. His best-selling book is his classic translation of Sun Tzu’s The Art of War.

Below is a guide to Cleary’s translations of The Art of War and other books on strategy, power, and martial arts published by Shambhala Publications. We hope you enjoy it and benefit from Cleary’s lifetime of dedication to these texts and the figures behind them.

Jump To: The Art of War  | Strategy & Power | Martial Arts

 

Thomas Cleary Reader Guides

BuddhismTaoism | Art of War, Strategy,  & Martial Arts | I ChingGreek Wisdom, Sufism & Islam

The Art of War

Warrior-philosopher Sun Tzu's venerable classic known as The Art of War is one of the most influential books of strategy ever written, as eagerly studied by modern business and political leaders as it was by military commanders in ancient times. At its heart, it is a study of the anatomy of conflict and competition in every form, as relevant to the battlefield as to interpersonal and international relations. Countless generations of readers have found that to study it is to unlock the secrets of victory without battle—and to achieve ultimate invincibility gained through a deep understanding of the physics, politics, and psychology of conflict.

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The Art of War

Compiled more than two thousand years ago by a mysterious warrior-philosopher, The Art of War is still perhaps the most prestigious and influential book of strategy in the world today, as eagerly studied in Asia by modern politicians and executives as it has been by military leaders since ancient times. As a study of the anatomy of organizations in conflict, The Art of War applies to competition and conflict in general, on every level from the interpersonal to the international. Its aim is invincibility, victory without battle, and unassailable strength through understanding of the physics, politics, and psychology of conflict.

This translation presents the classic from the point of view of its background in the great spiritual tradition of Taoism, the origin of psychology, science, and technology in East Asia and the source of the insights into human nature that underlie this most revered of handbooks for success. Translated from a standard collection of commentaries on Sun Tzu's text by eleven interpreters, the work has been edited by Thomas Cleary to bring out the meaning of the principles of strategy. In addition, the translator provides an extensive introduction discussing the content and background of the book.

 

 

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The Art of War: Complete Texts and Commentaries

This edition of Sun Tzu's text includes the classic collection of commentaries by eleven interpreters.

Mastering the Art of War: Consisting of essays by two prominent statesmen-generals of Han dynasty China, Zhuge Liang and Liu Ji, this book develops the strategies of Sun Tzu's classic into a complete handbook of organization and leadership. It draws on episodes from Chinese history to show in concrete terms the proper use of Sun Tzu's principles.

The Lost Art of War: Written more than one hundred years after Sun Tzu's text, by Sun Bin, a linear descendant of Sun Tzu, this classic of political and military strategy is faithful to the principles of The Art of War, while developing their practical application much further.

The Silver Sparrow Art of War: A version of Sun Tzu's Art of War based on a manuscript of the classic text discovered at a Chinese archeological site in China's Shandong Province in 1972, which contains previously unknown fragments.

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Mastering the Art of War: Commentaries on Sun Tzu's Classic

Composed by two prominent statesmen-generals of classical China, this book develops the strategies of Sun Tzu's classic, The Art of War, into a complete handbook of organization and leadership. The great leaders of ancient China who were trained in Sun Tzu's principles understood how war is waged successfully, both materially and mentally, and how victory and defeat follow clear social, psychological, and environmental laws. Drawing on episodes from the panorama of Chinese history, Mastering the Art of War presents practical summaries of these essential laws along with tales of conflict and strategy that show in concrete terms the proper use of Sun Tzu's principles. The book also examines the social and psychological aspects of organization and crisis management. The translator's introduction surveys the Chinese philosophies of war and conflict and explores in depth the parallels between The Art of War and the oldest handbook of strategic living, the I Ching (Book of Changes).

 

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The Japanese Art of War: Understanding the Culture of Strategy

Military rule and the martial tradition of the samurai dominated Japanese culture for more than eight hundred years. According to Thomas Cleary—translator of more than thirty-five classics of Asian philosophy—the Japanese people have been so steeped in the way of the warrior that some of the manners and mentality of this outlook remain embedded in their individual and collective consciousness. Cleary shows how well-known attributes such as the reserve and mystery of formal Japanese behavior are deeply rooted in the ancient strategies of the traditional arts of war. Citing original Japanese sources that are popular among Japanese readers today, he reveals the hidden forces behind Japanese attitudes and conduct in political, business, social, and personal life.

Strategy, Leadership, and Power

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The Book of Leadership and Strategy: Lessons of the Chinese Masters

The subtle arts of management and leadership have been developed over thousands of years by the Chinese. The Book of Leadership and Strategy represents the Taoist culmination of this long tradition and is one of the most prestigious works of ancient Chinese thought. Collected here are insightful teachings on the challenges of leadership on all levels, from organizational management to political statecraft. The translator, Thomas Cleary, has chosen and arranged these teachings to emphasize the most valuable lessons of Taoist wisdom for modern Western readers. Like Cleary’s best-selling translation of The Art of War by Sun Tzu, this work will serve as an enlightening guide for people in business, politics, and government.

 

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The Human Element: A Course in Resourceful Thinking

Insightful lessons from the great traditions of Asian thought on:

  • The essentials of wise leadership
  • Decision-making without prejudice
  • Inspiring loyalty and maintaining authority
  • Determining an individual's true character
  • Encouraging the best in people
  • Achieving success without sacrificing happiness
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Thunder in the Sky: Secrets on the Acquisition and Exercise of Power

Understanding the development and practice of power—based on an in-depth observation of human psychology—has been a part of traditional Chinese thought for thousands of years and is considered a prerequisite for mastering the arts of strategy and leadership. Thunder in the Sky presents two secret classics of this ancient Chinese tradition. The commentary by Thomas Cleary—the renowned translator of dozens of Asian classics—highlights the contemporary application of these teachings.

 

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The Way of the World: Readings in Chinese Philosophy

The dynamic relationship between the individual and society has been a central concern of Taoism from its ancient beginnings—which is perhaps why certain Taoist classics, like Sun Tzu’s The Art of War, are so often consulted these days for leadership advice. This anthology presents a wide range of texts revealing the processes of integrating personal spirituality with social responsibility central to Taoist tradition across the centuries and throughout the schools. There are a wealth of approaches to life in the world presented here, but at the heart of each is an understanding that even a mystic must be socially responsible and that self-cultivation is primary preparation for anyone called to lead.

Martial Arts Translations by Thomas Cleary

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The Book of Five Rings: A Classic Text on the Japanese Way of the Sword

Here is one of the most insightful texts on the subtle arts of confrontation and victory to emerge from Asian culture. Written not only for martial artists but for leaders in all professions, the book analyzes the process of struggle and mastery over conflict that underlies every level of human interaction.

The Book of Five Rings —which has become a well-known classic among American business people, studied for its insights into the Japanese approach to business strategy—was composed in 1643 by the famed duelist and undefeated samurai Miyamoto Musashi. Unlike previous editions of The Book of Five Rings, Thomas Cleary’s is an accessible translation, free of jargon, with an introduction that presents the spiritual background of the warrior tradition. Along with Musashi’s text, Cleary translates another important Japanese classic on leadership and strategy: The Book of Family Traditions on the Art of War by Yagyu Munenori, which highlights the ethical and spiritual insights of Taoism and Zen as they apply to the way of the warrior.

 

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Training the Samurai Mind: A Bushido Sourcebook

Through the ages, the samurai have been associated with honor, fearlessness, calm, decisive action, strategic thinking, and martial prowess. Their ethos is known as bushido, the Way of the Warrior-Knight.

Here, premier translator Thomas Cleary presents a rich collection of writings on bushido by warriors, scholars, political advisors, and educators from the fifteenth century through the nineteenth century that provide a comprehensive, historically rich view of samurai life and philosophy. Training the Samurai Mind gives an insider’s view of the samurai world: the moral and psychological development of the warrior, the ethical standards they were meant to uphold, their training in both martial arts and strategy, and the enormous role that the traditions of Shintoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism had in influencing samurai ideals.

The writings deal with a broad range of subjects—from military strategy and political science, to personal discipline and character development. Cleary introduces each piece, putting it into historical context, and presents biographical information about the authors. This is an essential read for anyone interested in military history and samurai history, and for martial artists who want to understand strategy.

All Books by Thomas Cleary

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Readers’ Picks

In thinking about year-end gifts, we want to share what YOU have to say.

Below are some lovely quotations from readers on their favorite Shambhala books.

Do you have one to add? Please comment at the bottom!

People Reading

The Art of Peace

$9.99 - Paperback

By: John Stevens & Morihei Ueshiba

“This book showed me a different way, a way to devote discipline of both my body and mind.”

—Clint

The Happiness Trap (Second Edition)

$19.95 - Paperback

By: Russ Harris

“As a therapist, I recommend this to anyone seeking permanent life change realistically.”

—Paul

Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind

$16.95 - Paperback

By: David Chadwick & Shunryu Suzuki

“If there is one book in my collection that I could give away to everyone, it would be this book.”

—Michael

Writing Down the Bones

$16.95 - Paperback

By: Natalie Goldberg

“This book changed my life as a writer, a teacher of writing, and as an individual!”

—Laurie

“This is a foundational book for anyone interested in delving deeper into the richness of martial arts philosophy.”

—Shane

When Things Fall Apart

$18.95 - Paperback

By: Pema Chödrön

“This book set me on a path of healing that has continued to the present day.”

—Miv

Walden

$18.00 - Hardcover

By: Henry David Thoreau

“This is, plain and simply, an astonishing book.”

—Michael

Siddhartha

$12.95 - Paperback

By: Hermann Hesse & Sherab Chodzin Kohn

“Pure, melodic, poetic, this book should be one of the first ones on the list for every serious reader.”

—Pawan

Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching

$14.95 - Paperback

By: Ursula K. Le Guin

“Every time I read Tao Te Ching, the book feels new again, fresh, as if only just discovered.”

—Robin

The Art of War

$19.95 - Paperback

By: Denma Translation Group & Sun Tzu

“Makes you really appreciate the ideas of strength and courage and the power of emotions and desire in overcoming any obstacle you face.”

—Eman

The Want Monsters

$16.95 - Hardcover

By: Chelo Manchego

“There is playfulness and joy on every page of this book, with a unique tone that has a distinctive voice and is full of heart.”

—Caspericus

The Wisdom of Not Knowing

$19.95 - Paperback

By: Estelle Frankel

“You will smile, cry, and be moved by the writings of a master storyteller.”

—Bruce

A Year of Picnics

$24.95 - Hardcover

By: Ashley English

“Filled with beautiful photos, delightful recipes, and creative picnic themes, each page gives inspiration to get outdoors!”

—Carly

Simple Green Suppers

$24.95 - Paperback

By: Susie Middleton

“This one hits the sweet spot for our busy lives with wonderful recipes of vegetarian dinners!”

—Alice

The Yogi Assignment

$24.95 - Paperback

By: Kino MacGregor

“Kino will motivate you to stick to the practice and walk the yogi path.”

—Julie

Trump and a Post-Truth World

$14.95 - Paperback

By: Ken Wilber

“A remarkable vision and an inspiring perspective of the challenges and opportunities in the chaotic, divisive, and evolving global cultures.”

—John

Mindful Games Activity Cards

$21.95 - MixedMedia

By: Susan Kaiser Greenland

“I think this is a great way for beginners to get started in mindfulness without feeling overwhelmed.”

—D.

The Religion of Tomorrow

$39.95 - Hardcover

By: Ken Wilber

“Brilliant. Life-changing. Psycho-active. Very enlightening.”

—Mariëlle

The Fountain Tarot

$40.00 - MixedMedia

By: Jason Gruhl & Andi Todaro & Jonathan Saiz

“Beautiful artwork that is cohesive and inspiring, high-quality construction, and an informative and well-written manual.”

—Rachel

Eat This Poem

$18.95 - Paperback

By: Nicole Gulotta

“Beautiful blend of memoir, cookbook, and reflections on living a thoughtful, food-enhanced life.”

—Kirsten

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The Art of War: A Reader’s Guide to the Way of Leadership and Strategy

For millennia, the classic book of strategy known as The Art of War has been one of the most influential guides to navigating conflict—read and studied not only by military tacticians but by leaders and thinkers of all types. But in many ways, its title is a misnomer. For its author, Sun Tzu (c. 544–496 B.C.E.), the most masterful strategists are able to thwart war altogether by skillfully managing conflicts. Still, Sun Tzu also recognizes that conflicts—even the horrors of war—can sometimes become inevitable. And The Art of War offers compelling insights for achieving swift victory with the most minimal suffering for all involved.

Shambhala Publications is pleased to offer some of the most groundbreaking contemporary translations and commentaries of this ancient classic available in English. To help readers discern the differences in the content and character of each of the versions in our collection, this guide will share some of their key features and most distinctive qualities.

The Thomas Cleary Translation

Thomas Cleary’s translation of The Art of War is a breakthrough achievement and has been a gold standard among translations for three decades, offering the complete text in eminently readable prose with short commentaries by other ancient Chinese strategists and philosophers interwoven throughout. Cleary also offers a clear and succinct introduction to the historical and philosophical context of The Art of War to provide readers with all of the background they’ll need to get started. There is no better entry point to The Art of War than this, and countless readers call Cleary’s translation their first and favorite.

Cleary’s translation is available in a number of editions, including: paperback, MP3 downloads, CD, and more.

The Art of War

$14.95 - Paperback

By: Thomas Cleary & Sun Tzu

For those wanting to go even deeper into the rich tradition of commentaries and elaborations on Sun Tzu’s philosophy, Thomas Cleary’s The Art of War: Complete Texts and Commentaries is the book of choice. It includes the full translation and set of commentaries that appear in the standard edition of his translation—plus translations of Mastering the Art of War (a handbook of leadership principles by Han dynasty generals Zhuge Liang and Liu Ji based on The Art of War), The Lost Art of War (practical applications of The Art of War’s principles by a descendant of Sun Tzu), and The Silver Sparrow Art of War (a version of The Art of War based on a manuscript of the text found during an archaeological dig in Shandong Province in 1972, containing fragments that had never before been known).

It is available in both paper and digital editions.

The Art of War

$29.95 - Paperback

By: Thomas Cleary & Sun Tzu

The Denma Translation Group

For a perspective on The Art of War that relates its philosophy directly to the concerns of contemporary, everyday life, the Denma translation is second to none. In addition to a full translation of the text, it offers numerous essays and line-by-line commentaries to elucidate practical applications. And aside from its exceedingly helpful commentaries, the translation itself is uniquely artful, revealing subtleties and enigmatic nuances to the original that no other translation captures quite so poetically. The Denma Translation Group, led by Kidder Smith (Bowdoin College) and James Gimian (Lion’s Roar magazine), has truly offered a treasure for would-be explorers of Sun Tzu’s thought. It is available in several editions:

Paperback + CD| Paperback |Hardcover

The Art of War

$19.95 - Paperback

By: Denma Translation Group & Sun Tzu

For those who wish to further explore the day-to-day applicability of The Art of War presented in the Denma translation, a very helpful companion piece is The Rules of Victory by James Gimian and Barry Boyce. It contains in-depth analyses of the real-life benefits to practicing The Art of War as well as practical guidance on how to transform chaos and conflict into opportunities for personal, professional, and social transformation. It includes the complete Denma translation of The Art of War as a useful appendix.

Available in Paperback | CD | Downloadble MP3.

The Rules of Victory

$26.95 - Paperback

By: Barry Boyce & James Gimian

Related Books on Strategy

In addition to translations of The Art of War itself, Shambhala Publications also offers a number of related books on strategy, leadership philosophy, and the art of success from classical Eastern sources.

One of the most compelling direct commentaries on Sun Tzu’s Art of War is Thomas Cleary’s Mastering the Art of War, a translation of writings by two prominent generals of classical China trained in Sun Tzu’s philosophy. It also appears in The Art of War: Complete Texts and Commentaries.

Mastering the Art of War

$24.95 - Paperback

By: Thomas Cleary & Liu Ji & Zhuge Liang

The Book of Leadership and Strategy is another classic Chinese text on organizational management, statecraft, and working with changing circumstances. Translated masterfully by Thomas Cleary, it is a valuable resource for people of all stripes—from those entrusted with business or political leadership to any individual seeking clarity and direction for awakening their own leadership potential.

The Book of Leadership and Strategy

$18.95 - Paperback

By: Thomas Cleary

Thomas Cleary’s Ways of Warriors, Codes of Kings is a keepsake collection of sayings from ancient Chinese masters of strategy. The perfect book for pithy gems of wisdom and inspiration.

The 36 Strategies of the Martial Arts is another extraordinary collection of ancient Chinese maxims on strategy, tactics, and the principles of success. These ancient teachings, collected and explained by Professor Hiroshi Moriya—brought to life in clear English by renowned translator of classic Japanese texts William Scott Wilson—it stands very much in the tradition of The Art of War as an essential classic.

Furthermore, The Japanese Art of War offers a fascinating elucidation of Japan’s own, unique traditions of military philosophy—themselves heavily influenced by Sun Tzu and other classic Chinese strategists. Among its many topics, it explores the influence of Buddhist sources on the development of samurai philosophy in Japan.

The Japanese Art of War

$21.95 - Paperback

By: Thomas Cleary

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The Nature of People from Mastering the Art of War

Mastering the Art of War

$24.95 - Paperback

By: Thomas Cleary & Liu Ji & Zhuge Liang

Knowing People

An excerpt from Mastering the Art of War.  Composed by two prominent statesmen-generals of classical China, this book develops the strategies of Sun Tzu's classic, The Art of War, into a complete handbook of organization and leadership. The great leaders of ancient China who were trained in Sun Tzu's principles understood how war is waged successfully, both materially and mentally, and how victory and defeat follow clear social, psychological, and environmental laws. 

Nothing is harder to see into than people’s natures. Though good and bad are different, their conditions and appearances are not always uniform. There are some people who are nice enough but steal. Some people are outwardly respectful while inwardly making fools of everyone. Some people are brave on the outside yet cowardly on the inside. Some people do their best but are not loyal.

Hard though it be to know people, there are ways.

First is to question them concerning right and wrong, to observe their ideas.

Second is to exhaust all their arguments, to see how they change.
Third is to consult with them about strategy, to see how perceptive they are.

Fourth is to announce that there is trouble, to see how brave they are.

Fifth is to get them drunk, to observe their nature.

Sixth is to present them with the prospect of gain, to see how modest they are.

Seventh is to give them a task to do within a specific time, to see how trustworthy they are.

Translations and Books Related to The Art of War

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