【原文】至善之为兵也，非地是求也，罚人是君也。立义而加之以胜，至威而实之以德。守之而后修，胜心焚海内。民之所利立之，所害除之，则民人从。《幼官》

 

【汉解】最高水平的用兵，不是为了占领别国的土地，也不是为了统治别国的人民。实行正义而以战胜为保证，给予威慑而以德政为内容；保持战果并扩展胜利果实，立意在控制天下。兴人民所利，除人民所害，则各国百姓服从。

 

【英译】The best way to employ arms is not by demanding the enemy’s territory but by applying punishments to their prince alone. Institute righteousness and apply it in your victories. Maximize your prestige and make it real by exercising benevolence. Observe these two and afterward you will conquer the minds of the enemy and encompass all within the seas.