隔岸观火 illustration

隔岸观火

Watch the Fire from the Opposite Shore

When the enemy is heading toward collapse through internal strife, wait and let the damage worsen.

Aliases
Watch the Fire from the Opposite Shore / Enemy Confrontation Stratagems
Domains
stratagem, negotiation, positioning, competition, conflict

Stratagem Name and Original Text

  • Stratagem Name: 隔岸观火
  • Original Text: 阳乖序乱，阴以待逆。暴戾恣睢，其势自毙。顺以动豫，豫顺以动。
  • Translation: When the enemy is heading toward collapse through internal strife, wait and let the damage worsen.

How It Works

  • Concise Definition: Do not interrupt the enemy's self-destruction.
  • Explanation: Some victories are won through patience rather than intervention.

Usage Example

  • When two stronger rivals begin fighting each other, preserve your resources and wait for the right moment.
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