To give way, make concessions, or retreat a great distance to avoid conflict, show respect, or prevent an escalation.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, Duke Xian of Jin, misled by slander, executed Prince Shengsheng and sought to capture his younger brother, Chong'er. Upon learning this, Chong'er fled Jin and lived in exile for over a decade.
After enduring numerous hardships, Chong'er arrived in the State of Chu. King Cheng of Chu, believing Chong'er would achieve great things in the future, welcomed him with the courtesies due to a feudal lord and treated him as an honored guest. One day, King Cheng hosted a banquet for Chong'er. As they drank and conversed cordially, King Cheng suddenly asked Chong'er, “If one day you return to Jin and become its ruler, how would you repay me?”
Chong'er pondered for a moment and replied, “Your Majesty already possesses abundant beauties, attendants, treasures, and silks. Rare birds, feathers, ivory, and animal furs are plentiful in Chu. What rare items could Jin possibly offer Your Majesty?” King Cheng said, “You are too modest, my son. Although that may be true, you must still show me some gesture of gratitude.” Chong'er smiled and answered, “If, by your grace, I can indeed return home and govern, I wish to maintain friendly relations with your esteemed state. Should a war ever break out between Jin and Chu, I promise to order my army to retreat ninety *li* (three *she*, where one *she* equals thirty *li*) first. If I still cannot earn your forgiveness, then I will engage in battle.”
Four years later, Chong'er indeed returned to Jin and became its ruler, known in history as Duke Wen of Jin. Under his rule, Jin grew increasingly powerful. In 633 BC, the armies of Chu and Jin met in battle. To fulfill his promise, Duke Wen ordered his army to retreat ninety *li* and encamp at Chengpu. The Chu army, seeing Jin retreat, thought they were afraid and immediately pursued. The Jin army, exploiting the Chu army's arrogance and underestimation of the enemy, concentrated their forces and decisively defeated the Chu army, winning the Battle of Chengpu.
The story originates from "Zuo Zhuan, Duke Xi, 22nd Year." The idiom "退避三舍" figuratively means to make concessions or actively avoid conflict.