善胜兵者，先自修理

善于打胜仗的人，须先做好自身的整治。战争的胜败，表现在战场之上，但决定胜败的因素往往在战场之外。作为高层的军事领导者，首先要从战略层面考虑如何克敌制胜。政治清明，百姓拥护，战争才会得到很好的后援；治军严整，军令畅通，军队才会有战力。这样才可保障自己先立于不败之地，进而战胜敌人。

Success in War Requires Good Organization

To be successful in war, the commander must ensure the readiness of his army. While war is fought on the battlefield, there are often non-military factors that determine its outcome, whether victory or defeat. A top commander must consider how to overcome the enemy as a matter of strategy. Sound policies and popular support will ensure strong support for fighting; strict military discipline and swift execution of orders will boost combat capability. Thus, the troops will be unbeatable and prevail over the enemy.

引 例

善用兵者，修道而保法，故能为胜败之政。（《孙子·军形》）（善于用兵的国家或领导者，总是确保政治清明有道、法度畅通有效，所以能成为战争胜负的主宰。）

To win a war, a country or a leader must ensure good governance and effective enforcement of laws. This is what determines the victory of war. (The Art of War)

善用兵者，先自修理不可胜之道；保法度，不失敌之乱败也。（《太平御览·兵部五十三·胜》）（善于打仗的人，先整治自己，使自己立于不败之地；确保治军法度畅通有效，不错过敌方任何混乱败亡的时机。）

Those who are good at fighting must first keep their own forces well-organized to make themselves unbeatable. They must ensure their orders are effectively executed, and be prepared to take advantage of any sign of confusion or turmoil in the enemy camp. (Imperial Reader for Emperor Taizong of the Song Dynasty)