腹はらが減へっては戦いくさは出で来きぬ

expression

an army marches on its stomach; you can't fight on an empty stomach

Proverb meaning that one cannot accomplish anything without first satisfying basic needs like hunger. Often used to emphasize the importance of eating before undertaking a difficult task.

• 腹はらが減へっては戦いくさは出で来きぬというから、まずは昼ちゅう食しょくにしよう。

  They say an army marches on its stomach, so let's have lunch first.

• 試し験けんの前まえにはしっかり食たべなさい。腹はらが減へっては戦いくさは出で来きぬよ。

  Eat well before the exam. You can't fight on an empty stomach.