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Those who assist a ruler by the Way, |
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do not use weapons to compel all under heaven. |
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Their work tends toward return. |
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Where the army camps, |
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thorns and brambles grow. |
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After a great army, |
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there must be a year of disaster. |
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Skillfully having the fruit—and that is all; |
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not daring to seek strength by force. |
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Fruit, yet without boasting; |
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fruit, yet without striking down; |
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fruit, yet without pride. |
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Fruit, yet only when compelled; |
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fruit, yet without force. |
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Things at their peak grow old; |
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this is called contrary to the Way; |
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contrary to the Way ends early. |