¹⁰ If the ax is dull, And one does not sharpen the edge, Then he must use more strength; But wisdom brings success.

¹⁰ If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge , then he must exert more strength . Wisdom has the advantage of giving success .

¹⁰ If the axe is blunt, and one doesn’t sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but skill brings success.

¹⁰ If the iron is blunt, and one does not whet the edge, then more strength must be exerted; but wisdom helps one to succeed.