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## The Study of Precepts
**A large number of valiant warriors have gathered in the battle, therefore, who knows who will be defeated, because sometimes even a few men can conquer a large number of people. The success of the task is in the hands of God.**
**Verse 2:**
**Shadow:** "In many moments, or in a single moment, such a moment may arise, which makes victory or defeat possible. Therefore, the cowardly people look for a place where they can hide if they are defeated."
**Translation:** "In many moments, or in a single moment, such a moment may arise, which makes victory or defeat possible. Therefore, the cowardly people look for a place where they can hide if they are defeated."
**Commentary:** "In many moments, or in a single moment, such a moment may arise, which makes victory or defeat possible. In such a situation, it is possible that we, the defeated, will 'hide' and perish. Therefore, the cowardly people look for refuge in the back, to protect themselves from danger."
**The verse illustrates this point with an example, and then the author summarizes it.**
**Verse 3:**
**Shadow:** "Thus, some Shramanas, knowing themselves to be weak, seeing the future fear, think of this Shruta (scripture) as a means of protection."
**Translation:** "Thus, some Shramanas, knowing themselves to be weak, seeing the future fear, think of this Shruta (scripture) as a means of protection."
**Commentary:** "Just as one who wants to enter a battle looks back and thinks, 'What will be my refuge, my protection, if I am defeated?' Similarly, some 'Shramanas' (ascetics), who are not firm in their resolve and are of weak character, knowing themselves to be 'weak' and unable to bear the burden of restraint for life, seeing the future fear, think, 'What will be my protection in old age, when I am weak, or in times of famine?' Thus, they think of livelihood and fear, and 'consider' (contemplate) other Shruta (scripture) that is beneficial to the world, as a means of protection."