The Kural or the Maxims of Tiruvalluvar/Chapter 87
CHAPTER 87
THE CHARACTERISTICS OF ENEMIES
861. Strive not with the powerful : but against those that are weaker than thyself carry on wars without relaxing even for one moment.
862. Behold the prince who is cruel, and who hath neither allies nor the strength to stand alone : how is he going to withstand his enemy's forces ?
863. There is a prince that hath neither courage nor understanding nor liberality, and yet will not live in peace with his neighbours: he is an easy prey to his foes.
864. Behold the prince who is always ill-tempered and who controlleth not his tongue : he will be an easy prey to everybody at all times and at all places.
865. There is a prince who is tactless, who careth not for honour, and who neglecteth the science of politics and the works that it enjoineth : verily he is a joy unto his enemies.
866. Behold the prince who is a slave to his lust and who loseth his reason in the blindness of rage : his enmity will be welcomed by his foes.
867. Behold the prince who undertaketh an enterprise but doth things that accord not with its success: verily one should seek his enmity even by paying a price for it if necessary.
868. If a prince hath no virtues and many vices he will have no allies and his enemies will rejoice.
869. Enemies rejoice exceedingly when they get a fool and a coward to contend against.
870. Behold the prince who careth not even to fight his foolish neighbour and obtain an easy victory : glory will reject him for evermore.
