One who assists the ruler in acord with the Tao
does not coerce the realm with weapons, for such affairs easily rebound.
Wherever the army has encamped, thorny brambles will grow.
After large armies have flourished there will certainly be baleful years.
One who excels rests in the results, that's all,
but does not thus dare to maintain great strength.
He rests in the result without bragging.
He rests in the result without boasting.
He rests in the result without becoming arrogant.
He rests in the result because he has no alternative,
He rests in the result but does not manifest his might.
Things that are strong grow old, the old is contrary to the Tao.
What is contrary to the Tao perishes early.