Couplet 481
A crow will conquer owl in broad daylight;
The king that foes would crush, needs fitting time to fight
Explanation
A crow will overcome an owl in the day time; so the king who would conquer his enemy must have (a suitable) time
Couplet 482
The bond binds fortune fast is ordered effort made,
Strictly observant still of favouring season's aid
Explanation
Acting at the right season, is a cord that will immoveably bind success (to a king)
Couplet 483
Can any work be hard in very fact,
If men use fitting means in timely act
Explanation
Is there anything difficult for him to do, who acts, with (the right) instruments at the right time ?
Couplet 484
The pendant world's dominion may be won,
In fitting time and place by action done
Explanation
Though (a man) should meditate (the conquest of) the world, he may accomplish it if he acts in the right time, and at the right place
Couplet 485
Who think the pendant world itself to subjugate,
With mind unruffled for the fitting time must wait
Explanation
They who thoughtfully consider and wait for the (right) time (for action), may successfully meditate (the conquest of) the world
Couplet 486
The men of mighty power their hidden energies repress,
As fighting ram recoils to rush on foe with heavier stress
Explanation
The self-restraint of the energetic (while waiting for a suitable opportunity), is like the drawing back of a fighting-ram in order to butt
Couplet 487
The glorious once of wrath enkindled make no outward show,
At once; they bide their time, while hidden fires within them glow
Explanation
The wise will not immediately and hastily shew out their anger; they will watch their time, and restrain it within
Couplet 488
If foes' detested form they see, with patience let them bear;
When fateful hour at last they spy,- the head lies there
Explanation
If one meets his enemy, let him show him all respect, until the time for his destruction is come; when that is come, his head will be easily brought low
Couplet 489
When hardest gain of opportunity at last is won,
With promptitude let hardest deed be done
Explanation
If a rare opportunity occurs, while it lasts, let a man do that which is rarely to be accomplished (but for such an opportunity)
Couplet 490
As heron stands with folded wing, so wait in waiting hour;
As heron snaps its prey, when fortune smiles, put forth your power
Explanation
At the time when one should use self-control, let him restrain himself like a heron; and, let him like it, strike, when there is a favourable opportunity
