After Duke Zhou defeated the Yin Dynasty, he planned to launch an attack on Shang and Gai. Xin Gongjia advised: “Powerful foes are hard to conquer, while small tribes are easy to subdue. We should first bring numerous minor tribes under control to overawe the strong ones.”
The army then campaigned against the Nine Barbarians. Eventually, Shang and Gai surrendered of their own accord.
Note
This text is excerpted from Han Feizi, Chapter: The Forest of Persuasions (Part I). It tells us that when facing multiple enemies, tackle the weak first to build momentum. Using indirect pressure can make strong opponents yield without fighting.
Late Warring States Legalist philosopher, citing this story to explain military and strategic wisdom.
Duke Zhou (Zhou Gong Dan)
Distinguished statesman and regent of the early Zhou Dynasty, who pacified the realm after the downfall of Yin.
Xin Gongjia (Xin Jia)
A wise advisor skilled at formulating indirect strategies.
Shang, Gai & Nine Barbarians
Tribal forces remaining after the fall of Yin; Shang and Gai were stronger, while the Nine Barbarians were scattered minor tribes.
Post-war pacification
After establishing a new dynasty, the ruler needed to subdue remaining hostile forces across the land.
Indirect strategy
A classic ancient tactic: avoid direct confrontation with strong enemies; eliminate weak forces first to build momentum and isolate the main opponent.
Psychological deterrence
Growing military influence would frighten powerful rivals into submission without fierce battles.
周公旦已勝殷，將攻商、蓋，辛公甲曰：「大難攻，小易服，不如服眾小以劫大。」乃攻九夷而商、蓋服矣。
Leave a Reply