To avoid the enemy's strengths and attack their weaknesses; metaphorically, to bypass core issues and focus on less significant aspects during a discussion or argument.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
The idiom 'Bì shí jiù xū' originates from the Battle of Chengpu in 632 BC, fought between the states of Jin and Chu. Duke Wen of Jin employed a strategy of avoiding the enemy's strengths and attacking their weaknesses. He deliberately steered clear of a direct confrontation with the powerful central army of Chu.
Instead, he ordered his subordinate forces to launch an assault on Chu's right flank, which was composed of weaker troops from the states of Chen and Cai. This attack quickly secured a victory.
Following this, Jin's general Hu Mao further used a clever ruse to lure and destroy Chu's left flank. Through these tactics, Jin achieved a significant and decisive victory, illustrating the wisdom of 'avoiding the solid and attacking the empty'.