Chinese Idiom: 远交近攻 (Yuan Jiao Jin Gong)
English Translation: Form alliances with distant states and attack nearby ones
pīn yīn: yuǎn jiāo jìn gōng
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to the strategy of forming alliances with distant nations while attacking those that are close, emphasizing a tactical approach in politics or warfare.
Historical Source: Strategies of the Warring States (《战国策 ·秦策三》).
Idiom Story:
During the Warring States period, Fan Ju (范雎), a talented individual from the State of Wei, found himself in a difficult situation due to his humble origins. Despite his capabilities, he was not appreciated in Wei and was eventually forced to flee to the Qin state under a new name, Zhang Lu (张禄), to escape the suspicions of the chancellor, Wei Qi.
In Qin, a minister named Wang Ji recognized Zhang Lu’s talents and recommended him to King Zhao of Qin, saying that he could save the state from danger with his wisdom. Initially dismissive, the king had Zhang Lu wait for over a year without summoning him. However, when the king planned an expedition against the distant state of Qi, Zhang Lu took the bold step of entering the palace to offer advice.
Upon meeting King Zhao, Zhang Lu remained silent despite the king’s polite requests for his insights. After several attempts to engage him, Zhang Lu finally spoke, cautioning the king about the dangers of overextending their resources by attacking distant states like Qi, which were separated by the states of Han and Wei.
He argued that if Qin focused on attacking nearby states like Han and Wei instead, it would allow them to expand their territory and strengthen their power without the risk of overextending themselves. This method, likened to a silkworm gradually consuming mulberry leaves, was what he called “远交近攻” (distant alliances and nearby attacks).
King Zhao was impressed by Zhang Lu’s strategic insight and immediately appointed him as a minister, abandoning the plan to attack Qi in favor of the strategy he proposed. Following this, the Qin state implemented Zhang Lu’s policy, successfully conquering the other states within a few decades and ultimately unifying China.
This story led to the popularization of the idiom “远交近攻,” symbolizing a strategic approach in both warfare and diplomacy. It serves as a reminder of the importance of calculated alliances and targeted actions in achieving success.
