Those who are willing will take the bait; it describes setting a trap or offering a proposition in such a way that only those who are predisposed or eager to be persuaded will fall for it, implying their willingness to be taken advantage of.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the tyrannical reign of King Zhou of Shang, the common people suffered greatly. Jiang Shang, also known as Jiang Taigong, retreated to the banks of the Wei River.
He frequently went fishing there, but his method was highly unusual: he used a very short fishing rod, a line only three feet long, a straight hook, and no bait whatsoever. People often ridiculed him for this strange practice. He would calmly respond, 'Those who are willing will take the bait.'
Eventually, Ji Chang, who would later become King Wen of Zhou, came to invite him. Ji Chang recognized Jiang Taigong's wisdom and sought his assistance to overthrow the brutal rule of King Zhou and establish a new dynasty.