yī一dé得zhī之yú愚
A humble opinion or suggestion offered by oneself; a modest view, implying that even a less intelligent person might sometimes have a worthwhile idea.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the conflict between Chu and Han, after Han Xin captured King Zhao Xie, he also apprehended Li Zuoche, the King's chief strategist. Han Xin, showing great modesty, sought Li Zuoche's counsel on how to conquer the states of Yan and Qi.
Li Zuoche advised him to rest his troops and consolidate his gains for a while. Simultaneously, he suggested, Han Xin should intensify propaganda against Yan to pressure them. This strategy, he believed, could lead to victory without engaging in battle.
Li Zuoche concluded by saying, 'Even the wisest among us may err after a thousand thoughts, and even a fool may stumble upon a good idea after a thousand considerations. These are merely my humble thoughts for your reference.'