1. If the base people fear you, you'll find them
Rushing to do all you desire and want.

2. And if they feel safe from a man's evil,
They set their hatred against him, once they see him deviate.

3. So counter their evil with evil, until you humiliate them.
While you, when you aim to do that, are praiseworthy.

4. And if in that they find you inattentive,
Threats will come at you from them, and threats.

5. So fear them not, but fear for them, for they -
When they feel safe from your drawing sword - are lions.