Lang Lai Khar Khwi

(Version in Hokkien)

Lang Lai

Khar Khwi

Lang Khi

Siew Looi!

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(Version in English)

When guests arrive

You spread your legs

When guest leave

You collect the money!

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About this ditty:~

This is a ditty that describes the oldest profession in the world! That of a prostitute.

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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Fatty Fatty Bom Bom

(Version in Hokkien)

Fatty Fatty Bom Bom

Orang Churi Jia Gong!

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(Version in English)

Hey Fatty!

There are people stealing corns!

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About this ditty:~

This is a school time teaser that pokes fun at fat people. It mixes Hokkien with English.

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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Or Kwi

(Version in Hokkien)

Or Kwi

Si Or Kwi

Lang Khek Lai

Lu Siam Khwi

Lang Khek Chau

Lu Siew Looi!

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(Version in English)

Pimp

Is always a pimp

When guests arrived

You make way

When the guests leaves

You collect the money!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a rhyme/ditty that describes the job of a pimp. “Or Kwi” here is a Hokkien phrase describing a pimp. In its original context, an “Or Kwi” is actually a tortoise!

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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Hniau, Hoon Hoon

(Version in Hokkien)

Hniau, Hoon Hoon

Choon Tiok Ho Kniar Soon

Ang Chuar, Ang Ang

Kniar Soon Tharn Looi Siew Gin Tharng!

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(Version in English)

Joss sticks smoking

Brings forth good descendants

Red packets, so red

All the riches your descendants earn would be deposited in the bank!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a rhyme/ditty that is uttered in wedding ceremonies.

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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Ay Hiow Pui, Bay Hiow Pui

(Version in Hokkien)

Ay Hiow Pui

Pui Bin Chooi

Bay Hiow Pui

Pui Khar Thooi!

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(Version in English)

If you want to put on weight

Do it on your face

If you put on weight incorrectly

You will fatten your thighs instead!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a rhyme/ditty that speaks of beauty. Many people still look pretty despite being fat on the face but with a fat thigh, you will look ugly and out of shape no matter how!

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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I say, You Say!

(Version in Hokkien)

I say You Say

Your Khar Chwni Boe Say!

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(Version in English)

I say you say

Your backside didnt wash!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a school time rhyme/ditty that pokes fun at English educated students.

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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Botak Head

(1st Version in Hokkien)

Botak Head

Come To School At Half Past Eight

Teacher Asked “Why Are You So Late?

“Because My Mother Cut Me Botak Head!

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(1st Version in English)

Baldy

Come to school at half past eight

Teacher asked “Why are you so late?

“Because my mother cut me bald!

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(2nd Version in Hokkien)

Botak Head

Came To School Late

Teacher Asked “Why Are You So Late?

“Because My Khar Tak Chiar Cannot Brake!

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(2nd Version in English)

Baldy

Came To School Late

Teacher Asked “Why Are You So Late?

“Because my bicycle cannot brake!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a school time rhyme/ditty that teases the bald headed students. There is a clever mix of Hokkien and English words in this ditty that makes it unique !

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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Char Bor Boh Ang

(Version in Hokkien)

Char Bor Boh Ang

Sim Khang Khang

Kow In Liow

Ko Kar Khang

Tar Por Bo Bor

Chin Kharn Khor

Kow In Liow

Ko Kar Khor!

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(Version in English)

A women without a husband

Her heart feels empty

After marriage

She feels emptier

A man without a wife

Feels difficult

But after marriage,

It turns bitter!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty describes the sad state of marriage for some!

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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Chart Chiak Bak

(Version in Hokkien)

Chart Chiak Bak

Lang Khnua Tiok

Chart Tiok Phar

Bo Lang Khnua Tiok!

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(Version in English)

When the thief eats meat

Everyone saw

When the thief was beaten

No one saw!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty describes how everyone knew when a thief spends his ill gotten gains but when that thief was caught and beaten, no one is aware of 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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Chow Thow Phi

(Version in Hokkien)

Chow Thow Phi

Koon Heh Bi

Heh Bi Nuar

Liak Chau Thow Phi

Lai Phooi Nuar!

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(Version in English)

Smelly head sores

Boil the dried prawns

When it is soft

Pick out the smelly head sores

Then spit on them!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is usually recited in the treatment of smelly head sores in children..

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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Chay It

(Version in Hokkien)

Chay It, Gia Mor Pit

Chay Ji, Snooi Chua Ji

Chay Snar, U’wa Sin Snar

Chay Si, Cheng Kim Khi

Chay Goh, Cheng T’ng Khor

Chay Lark, Phar Lak!

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(Version in English)

First day, hold a Chinese brush

Second day, counting money

Third day, change to new clothes

Fourth day, coiffured with gold jewellery

Fifth day, wear pants

Sixth day,  discard the sixth card!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty commemorates the first few days of the Chinese New Year. “Chay It” means the first day of the Chinese calendar and so on..

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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Ch’i Kniar

(Version in Hokkien)

Ch’i Tar Por Kniar, Boe Kar

Siang Ka Ch’i Gu

Ch’i Chow Wah, Boe Kar

Siang Ka Ch’i Tu!

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(Version in English)

Raising a son without teaching him

Is like rearing a cow

Raising a daughter without teaching her

Is like rearing a pig!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty stresses the need for children to be properly educated. But why were they referred to as pigs and cows is ironical if not to make the ditty humorous.

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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Ch’ng Ar Ch’ng, Phor Ar Phor

(Version in Hokkien)

Ch’ng Ar Ch’ng

Toe Tit, Toe Tiak

Phor Ar Phor

Toe Tharn, Nor Liap!

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(Version in English)

Currying for favours

Flip straight, flip bent

Currying for favours

Flip and win, two balls!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a sarcastic rhyme/ditty that condemns one who likes to curry others.  The Hokien word “Toe” in this case refers to the action of flipping/flicking as in flipping a coin or flicking a dice on the table.

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 Ay Chow Wa, Ho Ay Knia Sai

(Version in Hokkien)

Ho Ay Chow Wa

Oo How Ah Mah

Ho Ay Knia Sai

Gia H’niow Pai

Put How Ay Knia Sai

Si Ang Mor Phai!

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(Version in English)

A good daughter

Is filial to her mother

A good son-in-law

Prays with the jossticks

An unfilial son-in-law

Are the western educated ones!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is biased towards western educated Chinese/Christian Chinese/Westerners who are not rooted in Confucius values and teachings highly regarded by the Chinese schooled community. To a certain extent it is true but there are also westernised Chinese who still holds on to the old values their forefathers taught 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 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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Kniar Choon Chin Kharn Khor

(Version in Hokkien)

Kniar Choon Chin Kharn Khor

Siew Hong Ka Siew Hor

Chiak Moy Phuay Chai Por

Khiam Chni LAi CHua Bor!

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(Version in English)

It is not easy to be a sailor

Being exposed to wind and rain

Eating porridge with preserved radish

Saving every single cent to get married!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty describes the hardship of a Chinese sailor.

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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Liew Liew Siau

(Version in Hokkien)

Liew Liew Siau

Boe Kian Siau!

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(Version in English)

Shame on you

Who doesn’t know shame!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is always used on children to deter them from running everywhere whenever adults put on their clothes for them and if they do, it is also recited to make them come back!

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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Thau Ni Sim Pu

(Version in Hokkien)

Thau Ni, Sim Pu

Jee Ni, Sai Hu

Snar Ni, Wak Wak Tu

Si Ni, Lu Choot Chu!

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(Version in English)

First year, daughter-in-law

Second year, an accomplished expert

Third year, started talking back

Fourth year, mother-in-law got to leave the house!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty reflects on the habits of some daughter-in-laws.

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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Thni Or Or

(1st Version in Hokkien)

Thni Or Or

Buek Loke Hor

Lau Ah Mm

Khi Say Khor

Lau Ah Kong

Khi Kut Oar

Kut Tiok Buaya Hoo, Goh Poon Goh

Ah Kong Korng Buek Thai

Ah Mm Kong Chu Gulai!

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(1st Version in English)

The sky was dark

It was about to rain

Old nanny

Went to wash some trousers

Old grandpa

Went digging for yam

But dug out a five pounds five ounces crocodile instead

Old grandpa says he decided to kill it

Old granny says to cook it in curry!

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(2nd Version in Hokkien)

Thni Or Or

Ai Loke Hor

Ah Kong Chau Bo lor

Ah Mah Chuay Ah Kong

Ah Kong Gau Pek Chang

Ah Mah Chuay Bo lang!

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(2nd Version in English)

The sky was dark

It was about to rain

Grandpa could not escape it

Grandma looks for grandpa

But grandpa hid himself up on the tree

So grandma did not find him!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is meaningless but is recited each time stormy clouds appear. The Hokkien word “Ai” and “Buek” in both versions has the same meaning.

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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Thoo Lu Ku Lau Kau Hee

(Version in Hokkien)

Thoo Lu Ku

Ji Chap Si

Huan Na Kak

Pnuar Kau Hee

Pneh Teng Peng

Lau Kau Lin Tok Teng

Tok Teng Khiau

Lau Kau Si Khiau Khiau!

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(Version in English)

Baldy, Baldy

On the twenty fourth

At the Esplanade

There was a monkey stunt show

When the stage collapse

The monkey rolled down the table

The table went off balanced

And the monkey died!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is a tale that gradually became an advice to hyperactive children with tendencies to misbehave.

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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Thor Chai Thor Thor

(Version in Hokkien)

Thor Chai Thor Thor

Ow Kuay Chuey Bo Bor

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(Version in English)

A protuding belly button

In the future, it will be difficult for you to find a wife!

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About this ditty:~

This ditty teases one who possesses protruding belly buttons. It was indeed common in those days, the result of careless doctors or midwives who delivers the baby.

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 Thow Li Kong Chooi

(1st Version in Hokkien)

Tua Thow Li Kong Chooi

Gow Chiak Gow Pang Phooi

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(1st Version in English)

A big head with thunderous mouth

Has a good appetite and a frequent farter!

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(2nd Version in Hokkien)

Tua Thow Li Kong Chooi

Eh Chiak Bay Pang Phooi

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(2nd Version in English)

A big head with thunderous mouth

Has a good appetite but couldn’t fart!

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About this ditty:~

The second version criticizes someone who is good at shouting and eating but useless when it comes to simple chores unlike the first version which is contrary.

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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Ni Nor Ni Nor Keng

(Version in Hokkien)

Ni Nor Ni Nor Keng

Sin Niau Jib Pang Keng

Kniar Sai Thau Bong Leng!

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(Version in English)

Ni Nor Ni Nor Keng( the sound of clashing cymbals)

The bride enters the chamber

The bridegroom molested her breast!

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About this ditty:~

This is a ditty teasing newly weds!

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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Pang Phooi

(Version in Hokkien)

Eh Tarn Eh Phooi Bay Chau

Eh Chau Eh Phooi Bay Tarn

Tapi Sinseh Eh Phooi

Eh Tarn Ko Chau!

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(Version in English)

Loud farts aren’t stinky

Stinky farts aren’t loud

But a teachers fart

Are both stinky yet loud!

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About this ditty:~

This is a naughty ditty cheeky students dedicated it to their teachers!

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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Pai Khar

(Version in Hokkien)

Pai Khar, Pai EoEo

Khi Snuar, Thow Barn Keo

Lang Khnuar Tiok, Keh Pang Jio

Lang Liak Tiok, Ai Ai Kio!

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(Version in English)

Crippled with legs that sway

Went uphill to steal egg plants

When people are watching him, he pretended to urinate

When caught, he wails in pain!

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About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is a teaser. Sad but true that cripples were also made subjects in ditties.

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 Sai Chiam

(Version in Hokkien)

Bak Sai Chiam

Bak Sai Poe

Ai Ee Arsi Ai Swee

Tim Lu Loke Chwee

Ch’it Cheng Ni Khee

Ch’it Barn Ni Mm Thang Twni!

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(Version in English)

Pointed eye stye

Granny eye stye

Do you want it or would you rather be beautiful?

Throw you into the water

And said away for seven thousand years

Never to reappear again even after seventy thousand years!

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 About this rhyme/ditty:~

This ditty is recited when one afflicted with ‘eye stye’ had it removed. The process of removing it is done with a rice grain used to prick the stye. Seven times with seven grains, each time immediately discarding the grain into the water hoping that stye would never reappear again in one’s lifetime!

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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Ch’ow Sim Knuar

(Version in Hokkien)

Ch’ow Sim Knuar

Nua T’ng Ar Tor

Mm Si Chay It

Tok Chay Gor

Ow Buay Choot Snuar

Khi Tuar Hong

Loke Tua Hor!

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(Version in English)

Bad hearted

Hope your intestines would rot

If not the 1st day

then the 15th day of the month

Before the hearse leaves

Strong wind will blow

And heavy rain would befall!

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 About this rhyme/ditty:~

This rhyme/ditty is a curse intended for the bad hearted.

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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Ch’i Chiow Keh Hoay Liow

(Version in Hokkien)

Ch’i Chiow 

Keh Hoay Liow

Ch’i Hu

Keh Hoay Pu!

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(Version in English)

Rear birds

Fortune drained

Rear fishes

Fortune multiplies!

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 About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a rhyme/ditty is a superstition rather to discourage bird rearing.

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 Par Khoon

(Version in Hokkien)

Chiak Par Khoon

Tarn Ji Oon

Khoon Par Chiak

Tarn Ho Giak!

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(Version in English)

After eating, sleep

Waiting for fate

After sleeping, eat

Waiting to be rich!

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 About this rhyme/ditty:~

This is a rhyme/ditty about lazy people in the hope of striking it rich without working!

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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Gua Si Kong Chu Kong

(Version in Hokkien)

Gua Si “Kong Chu Kong” Eh Peng

Ch’niar Chieu Thnar

Toe Chieu Ch’eng

Ow Khar Thart Lu Si Teng Teng!

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(Version in English)

I am “Confucius” soldier

Right hand block

Left hand punch

Hind leg kick you to death!

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 About this ditty:~

This is a ditty that children recite when they were play acting while mimicking a famous Chinese personality named “Confucius” who is regarded by many, even worshipped as a wise sage.

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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It Ch’u Ji Gu

(Version in Hokkien)

It Ch’u

Ji Gu

Snar Hor

Si Thor

Goh Leng

Lark Chuar

Chit Beh

Peik Eow

Kow Kau

Charp Kay

Charp Ji Kow

Charp Ji Tu Bo Tuay Lang Chau

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(Version in English)

1. Rat

2.Cow

3.Tiger

4.Rabbit

5. Dragon

6. Snake

7. Horse

8. Goat

9. Monkey

10. Hen

11. Dog

12. Pig ran away with the rest.

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 About this ditty:~

This is the basic of all ditties all children were taught to memorize.  It could also be one of the earliest known to exist. This ditty describes the order of the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac that appears before the Lord Buddha and it serves as an easy guide to determine one’s age if that someone could tell you the zodiac sign they were born in with reference to your own!

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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