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328
FO-SHO-HING-TSAN-KING.
V, 28.
The clash of swords and bloody onset done, 'tis certain one must perish! and therefore whilst you aim to vanquish those, both sides will suffer in the fray. 2234
Then there are many chances, too, of battle, 'tis hard to measure strength by appearances; the strong, indeed, may overcome the weak, the weak may also overcome the strong; 2235
The powerful champion may despise the snake, but how will he escape a wounded body? there are men whose natures bland and soft, seem suited for the company of women or of children, 2236
But when enlisted in the ranks, make perfect soldiers. As fire when it is fed with oil, though reckoned weak, is not extinguished easily; so when you say that they (your enemies) are weak, 2237
Beware of leaning overmuch on strength of body; nought can compare with strength of right (religion). There was in ancient times a Gina' king, whose name was Karandhama (Avikshit), 2238
'His graceful (upright) presence caused such love (in others) that he could overcome all animosity; but though he ruled the world and was high renowned, and rich and prosperous, 2239
Yet in the end he went back and all was lost! So when the ox has drunk enough, he too returns. Use then the principles of righteousness, use the expedients of good will and love. 2240
Conquer your foe by force, you increase his
1 A Gina king, or a conquering king. Kárandhama was a name of Avikshit.
: Whether it means he went back to death,' or he lost his possessions by warfare, is not plain from the text. The phrase all was lost,' may also be rendered, he gave up all.'
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