Art Quote by Sun Tzu
“Should the enemy forestall you in occupying a pass, do not go after him if the pass is fully garrisoned, but only if it is weakly garrisoned.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of War by Sun Tzu, 5th century BC
Avoid attacking a well-defended position; instead, target weakly defended points to conserve resources and increase chances of success.
In simple terms: Attack weak spots, not strong ones.
Key Takeaway
Choose battles where you have advantage.
Themes
strategy
military tactics
resource management
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
strategic
military
When to use this quote
- military campaigns
- business competition
- political negotiations
Key Concepts
asymmetric warfare
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you assess enemy weakness accurately?
- When is it better to confront a strong position directly?
A Different Perspective
The advice assumes clear intelligence on enemy strength, which may be unavailable.
![“They [spies] cannot be properly managed without benevolence and straightforwardness.” quote by Sun Tzu](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/13c/sun-tzu-283_art_they-spies-cannot-be-properly-managed-wi_77546.jpg)
![“The PEOPLE being regarded as the essential part of the State, and FOOD as the people's heaven, is it not right that those in authority should value and be careful of both?"]” quote by Sun Tzu](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1e5/sun-tzu-283_food_the-people-being-regarded-as-the-essenti_16787.jpg)
