When two parties contend, a third party often benefits from their struggle; to describe a situation where opposing sides are locked in conflict, allowing an outsider to gain advantage.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
The state of Zhao was preparing to attack the state of Yan. Su Dai went to persuade King Hui of Zhao on behalf of Yan, saying:
"As I came here, passing by the Yi River, I saw a clam emerging from the water to sunbathe. A snipe flew down and pecked at its flesh. The clam immediately closed its shells, clamping the snipe's beak. The snipe said, 'If it doesn't rain today and doesn't rain tomorrow, there will be a dead clam.' The clam retorted, 'If your beak cannot be pulled out today and cannot be pulled out tomorrow, there will be a dead snipe.' Neither was willing to let go of the other.
Soon after, a fisherman came and caught both of them.
Now, Zhao is about to attack Yan. If Yan and Zhao remain locked in a prolonged struggle, the common people will become exhausted and impoverished. I fear that the powerful Qin state will become the fisherman who profits without effort. Therefore, I hope Your Majesty will seriously consider the matter of dispatching troops."
King Hui of Zhao replied, "Very well," and consequently halted the attack on Yan.