To engage in internal strife or mutual destruction; to devour each other, often within the same group.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Jin Dynasty, Liu Yuan, a leader of the Xiongnu people, observed the eight princes of Emperor Hui of Jin, Sima Zhong, engaging in intense internal power struggles and mutual destruction. Seeing this weakness, and encouraged by his general Liu Xuan and other commanders, Liu Yuan declared himself emperor.
Later, when Emperor Hui of Jin was driven to Luoyang by Qi Hong, Liu Xuan advised Liu Yuan against offering assistance. Liu Xuan argued that the Sima father and son, along with their brothers, were already "devouring each other" (自相鱼肉) and that this was an opportune moment to eradicate them.
Consequently, Liu Yuan moved his capital to Pingyang and made preparations to advance on Luoyang.