பகைவரை வளைத்து வெல்லும் இடத்தைக் காணும் முன் எந்தச் செயலையும் தொடங்க வேண்டா; பகைவரை அற்பர் என்று இகழவும் வேண்டா.

ஈடுபடும் செயல் ஒன்றும் பெரிதல்ல என இகழ்ச்சியாகக் கருதாமல், முற்றிலும் சரியான இடத்தைத் தேர்ந்தெடுத்து அச்செயலில் இறங்க வேண்டும்

முற்றுகை செய்வதற்கு ஏற்ற இடத்தைக் கண்டபின் அல்லாமல் எச் செயலையும் தொடங்கக்கூடாது, பகைவரை இகழவும் கூடாது.

Let not (a king) despise (an enemy), nor undertake any thing (against him), until he has obtained (a suitable) place for besieging him

Kural 491 emphasizes the importance of strategy and careful planning in any undertaking, especially in matters of conflict or warfare. The verse advises a ruler or leader not to underestimate any opponent or hastily engage in conflict without proper planning and scouting of an appropriate location for the battle. The idea of 'not despising an enemy' signifies that underestimating an opponent could lead to complacency, lack of preparation, and ultimately, defeat. Every adversary, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could pose a potential threat and should be treated with due respect and caution. The second part of the verse, 'until he has obtained a suitable place for besieging him,' underscores the significance of strategic advantage in warfare. The 'place' here could be interpreted literally as the physical location of the battle, or metaphorically as a strategic advantage or the right circumstances. A well-planned strategy that considers the terrain, resources, and timing could tilt the scales of victory. In broader terms, this verse can be applied to general life scenarios too. It advises not to underestimate any challenge or hastily dive into any task without proper planning and consideration of all factors. The wisdom of this verse lies in its emphasis on the importance of strategy, respect for the adversary, and careful planning in achieving success.