We decoded Kautilya Arthashastra Book 9 Chapter 4 for you, Here’s what you can learn from it:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Loss of trained men (kshaya) | March against the enemy when the expected profit outweighs the loss of men/wealth |
| Diminution of gold and grains (loss of wealth) | March against the enemy when the expected profit outweighs the loss of men/wealth |
| Profit that is receivable | Take it if easily acquired and secured without the necessity of returning it |
| Profit that is repayable | Take it if it will cause the enemy to dwindle and bring long-term benefits |
| Profit that pleases all | Accept it, but beware of treacherous ministers who may provoke hatred |
| Profit that excites hatred | Beware of treacherous ministers and only accept if it brings long-term benefits |
| Profit that is realized in a short time | Take it if it can be acquired easily without loss of men/wealth |
| Profit that entails little loss of men/wealth | Take it if it brings long-term benefits |
| Profit that is vast | Take it if it is immediately of considerable value and the source of wealth |
| Profit that is productive | Take it if it brings long-term benefits |
| Profit that is harmless | Take it if it can be acquired without troubles |
| Profit that is just | Take it if it can be acquired without any hindrance from allies |
| Profit that comes first | Take it if it is possessed of most of the above good characteristics |
| Obstructions to profit | Avoid passion, anger, timidity, mercy, bashfulness, haughtiness, and more |
