Lang Gau Thni Cho Tui Thau

(Version in Hokkien)

Lang Gau

Thni Cho Tui Thau

Lang Bo Akai

Thak Chek Thak Kar Pian Sai

.

(Version in English)

If one is clever

God will pave opportunities for them

If one is stupid

Whatever one study is to no avail.

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About this rhyme:~

This Hokkien rhyme/proverb/saying speaks about intelligence and the benefits of possessing it.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Bak Chiu Kim Kim

(Version in Hokkien)

Bak Chiu Kim Kim

Ai Chiak Tok Chiak

Ai Lim Tok Lim

.

(Version in English)

If one’s eyes are sharp

When one is hungry there’d be enough to eat

When one is thirsty there’d be enough to drink

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About this Proverb/Saying:~

This Hokkien Proverb/Saying advises people to be cautious so that one won’t be cheated and has plenty to live by.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Lang Swee Chiak Bin Chwee

(Version in Hokkien)

Lang Swee Chiak Bin Chwee

Lang Bo Swee Chiak Hai Chwee

Lang Swee Kar Oo Lang Tui

Lang Bo Swee Tok Kar Oo Looi

.

(Version in English)

If one is pretty, it has to do with patronage

If one is not, drinking seawater is likely

If one is pretty, one is likely to be pursued

If one is not, most likely one is richer.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

This Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying speaks about the pros and cons of people who were born pretty as opposed to those who are not. To ‘drink seawater’ means there is a slimmer chance that one is pursued.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Kh’nua Lang Chiak Bak

(Version in Hokkien)

Kh’nua Lang Chiak Bak

Mai Kh’nua Lang Sio Phak

.

(Version in English)

Better to see people eat and make merry

Than to watch people fight.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

There is alot of truth in this Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying. In another instance it seeks to advice people about being happy than becoming angry and to make more friends than enemies.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Titi Poon Titi Choon

(Version in Hokkien)

Titi Poon Titi Choon

Ch’ut Ho Knia Ho Soon

.

(Version in English)

The more one gives the more abundant one becomes

And one would be blessed with good descendants.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

There is alot of truth in this Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying about alms giving and the blessings one would receive in no time at all.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Oo Bor Siew Bor Khor

(Version in Hokkien)

Oo Bor Siew Bor Khor

Bo Bor Hiam Kharn Khor

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(Version in English)

With a wife, one has to harbor the wife’s resentment

Without a wife, one also complains about the difficulty of being single.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

This is an amusing Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying that describes the thoughts that runs through some single men’s head and thus, to be married or not becomes a challenge to them!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Bo Looi Bor Oo Looi Bor

(Version in Hokkien)

Bo Looi Bor

Karm Chiak Khor

Oo Looi Bor

Siang Kar Hor

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(Version in English)

A poor wife can withstand hardship

A well off wife behaves like a tiger.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

This is a traditional Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying that describes the traits of poor or well off women. Although some are amused by it, there is a lot of wisdom imparted by the older generations through rhymes like this!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Soo Kiau Soo Ka Lau Khaw

(Version in Hokkien)

Soo Kiau Soo Ka Lau Khaw

Khiarm Larng Kui Keh Lor

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(Version in English)

Lost in gambling till one’s pants drop

Owing money all around the streets.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

This is a Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying meant to describe the effects of gambling and the consequence of losing.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Pang Sim Mian Huan Lo

(Version in Hokkien)

Pang Sim Mian Huan Lo

Pneh To Khwai Khwai Ho

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(Version in English)

Be relaxed and stop worrying

The illness would then subside faster.

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About this Rhyme/Proverb/Saying:~

This is an optimistic Hokkien Rhyme/Proverb/Saying meant to encourage the sick to avoid being depressed so that recovery is imminent.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Chwee Titi Khwi

(Version in Hokkien)

Chwee Titi Khwi

Siang Kay Bo Khar Chwni

.

(Version in English)

The mouth keeps on opening

Like a hen that loses its backside!

 

About this rhyme/saying:~

This rhyme/saying is a teaser heard and uttered in jest when one is caught with a mouth wide open!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Kin Chiong Khi Tua Korng

(Version in Hokkien)

Kin Chiong Khi Tua Korng

Bo Sniar Luan Choo Chorng

.

(Version in English)

When one is excited one become hasty

Without a sound one rushes ahead!

 

About this rhyme/saying:~

This witty rhyme/saying cautions us to be compose at all time as accidents could happen if we are careless.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Tua Chiak Tua Parng

(Version in Hokkien)

Tua Chiak Tua Parng

Tua Khoon Tua Barng

.

(Version in English)

Eat alot and you will shit alot

Sleep alot and you will dream alot.

 

About this rhyme/saying:~

This witty rhyme/saying describes our in built eco system inside our body but honestly can we dispute it!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Chit Sim Nor Ee

(Version in Hokkien)

Chit Sim Nor Ee

Buek Khi Ko Mai Khi

.

(Version in English)

One heart, two intents

Wanted to go yet hesitate to.

 

About this rhyme/saying:~

This rhyme/saying describes people who are indecisive.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Chit Nor Snar

(Version in Hokkien)

Chit Nor Snar

Chang Aik Bo Cheng Snar

Chit Nor Snar Si

Chang Liow Bo Tai Chi

.

(Version in English)

One, Two, Three

Bathe without clothes one

One, Two, Three, Four

Once bathe ail is well!

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About this rhyme:~

This is a witty Hokkien childhood rhyme/ditty that is recited to the child when they are bathed. In the olden days where there are no water heaters, the water tends to be very cold and children dread bathing. Many ended up crying so the mothers would recite this rhyme/ditty while cusping some of the tub water to tap on the baby’s chest to make them adapt to the water temperature and psychologically, it tends to make the children forget about the chill as they recite along happily with their parents! Some adults chant this before the bathe to entice the child and the child on hearing this will spontaneously run to the adult to have their clothes taken off to be bathed!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Bo Hu Heh Ma Ho

(Version in Hokkien)

Bo Hu Heh Ma Ho

Bo Arn Nya Sian Ah So

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(Version in English)

If there are no fish, prawns are just as good

If there are no young damsels, then tackle the older ones!

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About this rhyme:~

This is a witty Hokkien rhyme. It discourages fastidiousness in everything especially when one is in search of a life partner` that one cannot afford to be too cautious and mindful about the little flaws otherwise one would end up single for the rest of one’s life.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Cho Ho Sim

(Version in Hokkien)

Cho Ho Sim

Hor Lui Chim

.

(Version in English)

To do good

And let the lighting strike you.

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About this rhyme:~

Although directly translated as such, this Hokkien rhyme/proverb/saying doesn’t discourage one to do good. What it means is occasionally when one does another a good favor, quite often they are often taken for granted and that good favor won’t be repaid when one is in need so this rhyme/proverb/saying encourages one to be mindful~ that it is wonderful to help but do not allow oneself to be used as it might lead to problems. The best example are the drug carriers who often victimizes good Samaritans to carry luggages on behalf of them through the customs and are thence arrested!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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A-B-C

(Version in Hokkien)

A-B-C

Wa Phar Lu, Lu Phar Ee

.

(Version in English)

A-B-C

I beat you, You beat him.

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About this rhyme:~

This is a Hokkien childhood  rhyme. Meaningless, but often heard in traditional games to select the individual who would kickstart the game.Very much like the tossing of the coin to determine which side shall start, this rhyme works in the same fashion but its usefulness became apparent when an unspecified number of individual players is involved in the game. As he recites each syllable, the player appointed by the group to recite the rhyme will point his finger concurrently to the next player gathered in front of him be it in clockwise or anticlockwise fashion and the person pointed at when the last syllable is recited would be it. For example, in the game of hide and seek, the person pointed at shall be the seeker and the rest will all hide.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Si Chap Kau Pang Lai Hau

(Version in Hokkien)

Si Chap Kau

Pang Lai Hau

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(Version in English)

Forty Nine

Left them crying

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About this rhyme/proverb/saying:~

This Hokkien rhyme/proverb/saying discourages older women (e.g a woman at forty-nine years of age) to give birth because one would not live that long to ensure one’s child would be well taken care of.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Oo Mnia Men Knia Thnia

(Version in Hokkien)

Oo Mnia

Men Knia Thnia

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(Version in English)

As long as one’s lifeline is intact

One should not complain about pain.

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About this rhyme/proverb/saying:~

This Hokkien rhyme/proverb/saying encourages one to have a fighting spirit. To toil is fine and to tolerate pain like a women’s labor is also fine. If one is scourge, the degree of pain one has to endure won’t be as bad as death itself.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Chiak Lau

(Version in Hokkien)

Chiak Lau

Knia Buek Oo Hau

.

(Version in English)

When one reaches a golden age

What is most important is to have filial children.

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About this rhyme/proverb/saying:~

This Hokkien rhyme/proverb/saying speaks about the most important blessing one could have when one reaches one’s golden age. It is a well known saying that money cannot buy happiness and happiness stems from one’s fine offsprings who would repay back the years of toil and hardship a parent sacrifices for them by taking care of their parents in return once one gets too old. It is also a well known fact that only those who are financially incapable of fending for themselves or their own families would send their parents to old folks home. If the rich were to do that, they would be scorned!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Keh Huay Poon Bo Pneh

(Version in Hokkien)

Keh Huay Poon Bo Pneh

Phak Kar Jee Kow Meh

.

(Version in English)

If one’s fortune is not sensibly divided

A dispute will last till the twenty-ninth moon of the Chinese calendar.

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About this rhyme/saying:~

This Hokkien rhyme/proverb/saying speaks about inheritance and how greed would always interfere with goodwill and sensibility. If a well meaning-ed individual did not divide his fortune to appease all the stakeholders who are close to him especially his heirs and immediate relations, more often than not, a dispute will erupt causing endless feud and embarassment!

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Par Sarng Kuat Kuat

(Version in Hokkien)

Par Sarng Kuat Kuat

Tay Yar Boh Chit Puat

.

(Version in English)

Dressed up dandily

But however, one’s pocket are empty.

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About this rhyme/saying:~

This Hokkien rhyme/saying is meant to poke fun but sometimes used sarcastically at people who are overtly concern about their clothing and appearance as quite often, it had been proven that these “dandys”, though they looked good are more than often broke! The word “puat” has been used by Penang Hokkiens since time immemorial and “Chit Puat” would mean “10 cents” as “Nor Puat” would mean “20 cents”. It is not known how the word “Puat” originated but I have a strong notion “Puat” could be borrowed from Thailand whose own currency is called “Baht” as the pronunciation is quite similar.  However, if the denomination goes lower that 10 cents, then, we called it “lui” which could understandably have been borrowed from the “Dutch East Indies” who once issues currency known as “doit” which the Malay Peninsular later adapted it as “duit”. If the amount reaches a “Dollar” and beyond, it automatically switches to “Khaw” hence “Chit Khaw” means “One Dollar” and “Charp Khaw” means “Ten Dollars”. As an avid numismatist myself, I have never for once ever come across a denomination called “Khaw” if one were to research back the currencies used by the traders of the East since the Kingdom of Malacca exist. It might be of interest to history buffs that the northern states of Malaysia comprising Trengganu, Kelantan, Perlis, Kedah and Penang were once principalities of Siam till the 1800’s.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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pitter-patter

as the rain fell

a pitter-patter

onto the zinc sheets

that roofed my house

I am jolted

by the noise it made

and the reality that

seeps into my way

.

as the rain fell

a pitter-patter

onto the flat sheets

that roofed my bed

I am bemused

by the spread it made

and how I collected the

bucket loads you made

.

as the rain fell

a pitter-patter

onto the awnings

that shades my window

I am throttled

by the wind it raked

and the chill that

forages till I fray

.

as the rain fell

a pitter-patter

as the rain fell

a pitter-patter

as the rain fell

a pitter-patter..

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like I used to

I can no longer swim in your storm

I can no longer swing my arms

like I used to

because of pain

I can feel myself decaying and soon

insects would readily appear

to lick on my wounds

.

I can no longer swing my arms

I can no longer close the wounds

like I used to

because of your pain

and if the insects would

plant eggs on my wound

and the storms would readily come

.

I would drown

.

I can no longer fend myself

lest to swing my arm

to fend you

from the insects

that lay eggs on my wound

like I used to

because of your pain..

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Ph’nua Pneh

(Version in Hokkien)

Ph’nua Pneh Chin Kharn Khor

Hong Kah Kui Pat Tor

Thau Khark Juak Juak Larng Chin Sian

Knia Lor Hin Hin Tit Tit Lian

Kha Ch’ew Leng Leng Siang Ka Sng

Nui Nui Kor Kor Tiok Lang Kng

Ph’ni Kong Tiok Thart Bay Chuarn Khooi

Ho Chye Bo Chit Eh Tnui Khui

Kar Chiak Thnia, Sin Ku Snui

Bak Chiu Siap Siap Peh Bay Khooi

Sau Bay Hneh, Ow Bay Choot

Nar Ow Siang Ka Keh Tiok Hu Kut

Chay Bay Chai, To Tiau Eya Beh Song

Char Khi Larng Sor Chuay Ki Torng

Eh Por Chuay Tng Lang Sin Sneh

Amg Mor Loke Kun Chuay Arm Meh

Gia Hniau Hneh Guan Kiew Hor Ho

Ni Ni Kha Tarn Chiak Ang Cho

Ho Liau Kau Guek Sor Chiak Chye

St Anne Gia Hua, Chaik Ar Pai

Thaipusam Tuay Lang Khi Siak Eya

Nasi Kunyit  Ka Nar Tho Tarp Sia

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(Version in English)

Indeed it is suffering when one is ill

And a tummy fully bloated against one’s will

Fever makes one easily tired

To walk around tipsy

Both the hands and legs grew cold

And one gets weaker till one needs to be propped

A runny nose blocks one’s breathing

Luckily one didn’t die because of this!

Backpain and aches all over the body

And one’s eyelid can hardly pry open

Endless coughing and vomitting too

Feels like some fish bone got stuck in one’s throat

Don’t feel good sitting up nor lying down

So in the morning one went to consult a medium

In the afternoon one went to consult a chinese physician

And in the evening one went to consult a doctor

Carrying the joss-sticks praying to get well

So that when new year comes, one can still relish red dates

And when the ninth month comes, one can ritualise to be a vegetarian

And carrying flowers and lighting candles to offer up to St Anne

And when Thaipusam comes, one can follow others to smash coconuts

And offering of turmeric rice  to the Datuk deity as thanksgiving.

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About this Rhyme/Saying:~

This Hokkien Rhyme/Saying tells of the impending catastrophes of a sick person and the traditional observances a Hokkien in Penang would follow to regain their health. It is not uncommon to see Buddhists, Taoist and Hindus placing their palms together to pray whenever they encounter a shrine big or small for it is their belief that these deities are spiritual beings that possesses greater powers and reverence to them is important as a mark of respect as well as good for the well being of a person. Parents are also noted to encourage their kids to do the same whenever a roadside shrine is encountered.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These proverbs and sayings has always been a guide and lesson to the many who has never been to school so as to help them steer well in the river of  life and in a way, it seeks to retell their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Pattern Chay Kuay Badminton

(Version in Hokkien)

Pattern

chay kuay badminton

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(Version in English)

Patterns

are more than playing badminton.

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About this rhyme/saying:~

Pattern chay kuay badminton is a Hokkien rhyme/saying that describes an ‘idealist’ meaning a person who may be unrealistic and impractical in his thinking- a visionary who may not see things as they are but as he would like them to be hence losing his focus on his basic intent. Sticking to the words of this rhyme/saying, so it is said that this type of person churns out more ‘patterns’ than the rules of the game of  ‘badminton’. The words ‘pattern’ and ‘badminton’ is English in nature.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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Ho Knia Ch’i Bay Uak

(Version in Hokkien)

Ho Knia

Ch’i Bay Uak

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(Version in English)

Good chaps

Are difficult to raise

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About this rhyme/saying:~

Hoe Kniar Ch’i Bay Uark is a Hokkien rhyme/saying that emphasises the need to be streetwise or otherwise be bullied/tricked.

The author/owner has compiled for record, a collection of early Hokkien sayings, proverbs, rhymes and ditties to capture the essence and spirit of his hoi polloi, a community originating from the southern province of Fujian, China where individuals climbed aboard bum boats, crossing the South China Sea to settle in faraway lands to escape the brewing civil unrest and a way out from hardship carrying along with them in their journey, nothing except their trademark ponytails and their beliefs, very much rooted in Confucianism. These ditties retell their story and their lifestyle way back then so that the younger generation can gain an insight and foothold to their origin..

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