The man who assists emperor with the principle of Tao’s will not conquer the world by force of arms. Such warring is sure to meet with its proper future return. Where armies are, thorns and brambles grow. Lean years always follow the war.
Therefore a good captain who acts accord with the standard of Tao’s just fights for relieving jeopardy. He will not use all armed might to indulge in aggressive wars. He will not be swashbuckling, pretentious, cocky and conceited after he gains his ends by force. It’s just be forced to fight.
When things have attained their strong maturity they become old. This is the rule of the Tao’s. What is not in accordance with Tao soon comes to an end.
