"善戰者之勝也無智名無勇功"
孫子: 兵法
This is a wonderful passage from Sun Tzu's chapter on "Dispositions" in Art of War. Here is my own translation:
"The victories of the best war master bring neither reputation for wisdom nor credit for bravery"
Translation Notes:
"善戰者" [top/best, war, person] I 've translated as "best war master" since a master is in fact a top practitioner of warfare
"也": I am translating this particle as "bring" since it functions as a verb to communicate a passive form of receiving (in contrast to the active "obtain")
"智名" [wisdom, name] 名 is commonly used to indicate a widely-known name, thus "reputation"
"功" [merit/meritorious deed/credit] I've chosen "credit" in this instance since the preceding characters in the statement have referred to reputation.
Overall, I admire the sense of humility inherent in this passage. So often in the West, the terms "War" and Glory" are always paired. Sun Tzu turns this view of warfare on end, stating quite clearly that war will not bring one fame and glory. It is best to understand this fact. This statement follows up on Sun Tzu's central tenet of avoiding combat altogether--winning through alternative means. If one avoids conflict through a behind-the-scenes diplomacy, it is quite apparent that one's efforts will not be brought to light. It is understood that such a wise, clever, and diplomatic leader will have had no desire for such acknowledgement in the first place. Such an individual would be above such worldly concerns, and therefore he proves that he is worthy of leading his or her people. This is quite beautiful.
