Peru is a land of breathtaking contrasts, where the arid coast meets the towering Andes and descends into the lush Amazon rainforest. This geographical diversity is mirrored in its rich cultural tapestry, woven from the threads of ancient Inca civilizations, Spanish colonial heritage, and vibrant indigenous traditions. The wisdom emerging from this nation is profound, deeply rooted in the concept of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the complexities of human resilience. Peruvian proverbs serve as a mirror to a society that values community, hard work, and a fatalistic yet hopeful view of destiny.
The oral tradition in Peru is a powerful vehicle for preserving history and morality. Long before the arrival of the Spanish, the Quechua and Aymara peoples transmitted their laws and philosophies through spoken word. The famous Inca moral code—do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy—remains the bedrock of Andean ethics today. Over centuries, this indigenous wisdom blended with Spanish proverbs, creating a unique lexicon of sayings (refranes) that are colorful, often humorous, and always insightful. These sayings are not merely quaint phrases; they are practical tools used in daily life to resolve conflicts, educate children, and make sense of the hardships inherent in a developing nation.
To understand Peruvian proverbs is to understand the soul of its people. It is to recognize the importance of ayni (reciprocity), the acceptance of hierarchy, and the enduring spirit required to thrive in harsh environments. Whether spoken in the bustling streets of Lima or the quiet highlands of Cusco, these words offer universal lessons on navigating the labyrinth of life. In this comprehensive collection, we explore the depth of Peruvian thought, offering a window into a culture that honors the past while navigating the present.
POPULAR PROVERBS
Life, Destiny, and the Passage of Time
"Water that you should not drink, let it run."
This proverb advises against interfering in matters that do not concern you or pursuing situations that will ultimately bring no benefit. It suggests a philosophy of non-attachment and wisdom in choosing one's battles. By letting the water flow, one avoids the potential toxicity or trouble that comes from forcing an outcome that was never meant to be.
"The shrimp that falls asleep is carried away by the current."
This is perhaps one of the most famous sayings in the Hispanic world, deeply ingrained in Peruvian culture. It serves as a stern warning against complacency and lack of vigilance. In a fast-moving world, failing to pay attention or seize opportunities results in being swept away by circumstances beyond one's control, leaving the individual lost or disadvantaged.
"There is no harm that lasts a hundred years, nor a body that can endure it."
Peruvians use this saying to offer hope and perspective during times of intense suffering or crisis. It reminds the listener that all situations, no matter how terrible, are temporary. It is a testament to human resilience, suggesting that eventually, the problem will end, or the person will cease to suffer, emphasizing the impermanence of all things.
"God tightens the rope, but He does not strangle."
This saying reflects the deep-seated Catholic faith present throughout Peru, blended with a sense of fatalism. It acknowledges that life will present severe challenges and tests of character that feel unbearable. However, it offers the reassurance that one will never be given a burden so heavy that it completely destroys them; relief is always on the horizon.
"What begins badly, ends badly."
Rooted in the belief of foundational integrity, this proverb suggests that the initial steps of any enterprise dictate its conclusion. If a relationship, business, or project is built on lies or poor planning, it is destined for failure. It encourages people to start their endeavors with honesty and correctness to ensure a positive outcome.
"Paper speaks."
In a bureaucratic society, oral promises are often viewed with skepticism. This proverb emphasizes the absolute necessity of written documentation and contracts. It serves as practical advice in business and legal matters, reminding people that words can be forgotten or denied, but a written document stands as irrefutable proof of an agreement.
"To he who gets up early, God helps."
This maxim champions the virtues of industry, punctuality, and proactive behavior. It suggests that divine providence favors those who take initiative and start their day with purpose. It is often used by parents to motivate children to be diligent and by workers to justify the hard labor required to succeed in a competitive economy.
"Better late than never."
While punctuality is valued, completion is valued more. This saying is used to express relief when something expected finally arrives or is accomplished, even if it is past the deadline. It forgives the delay in favor of the fact that the obligation was eventually fulfilled, prioritizing the result over the timing.
"He who seeks, finds."
This proverb can be interpreted in two ways: as an encouragement for the curious and persistent, or as a warning for the suspicious. In a positive light, it means that effort yields answers. In a negative context, it warns those who dig for gossip or trouble that they will likely discover unpleasant truths they were better off not knowing.
"Time cures everything."
This is a universal sentiment regarding the healing power of temporal distance. It suggests that emotional wounds, heartbreaks, and scandals lose their sting as days turn into years. It counsels patience to those who are suffering, reassuring them that their current pain will not feel this acute forever.
"The devil knows more because he is old than because he is the devil."
In Peruvian culture, age is revered as a source of accumulation of wisdom. This saying posits that experience teaches more than raw intelligence or inherent nature. It serves as a reminder to respect the elders, as their knowledge comes from living through situations that the young have yet to encounter.
"Tomorrow is another day."
This simple phrase encapsulates a philosophy of hope and the necessity of rest. When things go wrong or work is left unfinished, this proverb grants permission to stop and reset. It reminds us that the failures of today do not dictate the potential of the future, allowing for a fresh start with the rising sun.
"Every cloud has a silver lining."
Translated from the sentiment that "there is no evil from which good does not come," this proverb encourages optimism. It suggests that even in the most negative events, there is a hidden benefit or a lesson to be learned. It is a call to look for the positive aspects in valid misfortunes and to trust in a greater plan.
"He who laughs last, laughs best."
This saying serves as a warning against premature celebration and arrogance. It implies that the final outcome is the only one that matters, and early victories can be deceptive. It is often used in competitive situations to remind the boastful that the tables can turn at any moment.
"Opportunity makes the thief."
This is a cynical yet practical observation about human nature. It suggests that even an honest person might be tempted to steal if the conditions are perfectly safe to do so. It acts as a warning to guard one's belongings and not to create situations where others might be tempted to act unethically.
"Habit does not make the monk."
Appearances can be deceiving, and this proverb warns against judging someone solely by their exterior or title. Wearing religious garb does not make one holy, just as wearing a suit does not make one a professional. It encourages looking deeper into a person's character and actions rather than their superficial presentation.
"Better a bird in hand than a hundred flying."
This adage promotes pragmatism and risk aversion. It argues that it is better to hold onto a small, certain gain than to risk it all for a massive, potential gain that is uncertain. In a volatile economic environment, this wisdom is often applied to financial decisions and career choices.
"The habit makes the master."
Contrary to the previous proverb about the monk, this one focuses on skill acquisition. It states that repetition and practice are the only ways to achieve mastery. It emphasizes that talent is secondary to the dedication of doing the same task repeatedly until perfection is achieved.
"Past waters do not move mills."
This proverb advises against dwelling on past regrets or glory. Just as water that has already flowed past the mill can no longer generate energy, past events cannot change the present. It is a call to focus on the current moment and future possibilities rather than lamenting what has already occurred.
"Live and let live."
This is a plea for tolerance and autonomy. It suggests that one should focus on their own life and allow others the freedom to live theirs without interference or judgment. It promotes social harmony by discouraging gossip and the imposition of one's values upon neighbors.
Human Relations and Community
"Tell me who you walk with, and I will tell you who you are."
Social associations are seen as a reflection of character. This proverb warns that we are judged by the company we keep. It implies that people tend to gravitate toward those with similar values, so if one associates with troublemakers, they will be perceived as a troublemaker, regardless of their individual actions.
"Faces we see, hearts we don't know."
This serves as a caution against trusting people too quickly based on their friendly demeanor. It acknowledges the disconnect between outward appearance and inner intent. A smiling face can hide a treacherous heart, reminding the listener to be vigilant and discerning in relationships.
"He who has a friend has a treasure."
True friendship is valued highly in Peruvian society, often above material wealth. This saying elevates the status of a loyal friend to that of a precious commodity. It suggests that a reliable support network is the most valuable asset one can possess in life.
"Between joke and joke, the truth peeps out."
Humor is often used as a vehicle to deliver difficult truths. This proverb suggests that when people make jokes, they are often revealing their true feelings or opinions under the guise of comedy. It encourages listeners to pay attention to the underlying messages in jest, as they often contain reality.
"Love enters through the kitchen."
Peruvian cuisine is world-renowned, and this proverb highlights the connection between food and affection. It suggests that the way to win someone's heart is by feeding them well. It reflects the cultural importance of cooking as an act of love and a primary method of caretaking in the family unit.
"A barked dog does not bite."
This is used to describe people who are loud, aggressive, or threatening but ultimately harmless. It suggests that those who make the most noise are often compensating for a lack of courage or ability to act. It advises not to be intimidated by bluster and shouting.
"With the rod you measure, you will be measured."
This biblical reference is deeply integrated into secular life. It warns that the standards you use to judge others will eventually be used to judge you. It serves as a call for empathy and fairness, reminding people that harsh judgment invites harsh retribution.
"Today for you, tomorrow for me."
This is the essence of reciprocity, mirroring the Andean concept of ayni. It implies that helping someone today creates a social debt that will be repaid in the future. It fosters a spirit of communal support, where aid is not charity but a cyclical exchange of favors.
"Dirty laundry is washed at home."
Family honor and privacy are paramount. This proverb dictates that family disputes, scandals, and problems should be resolved internally and never discussed with outsiders. It warns against airing grievances in public, which brings shame to the entire household.
"Out of sight, out of mind."
This saying suggests that emotional bonds weaken with physical separation. It warns that long-distance relationships or prolonged absences can lead to forgetting. It highlights the human tendency to focus on what is immediately present and tangible.
"Words are carried away by the wind."
Similar to "paper speaks," this proverb emphasizes the unreliability of verbal promises. It suggests that without action or written confirmation, spoken words have no weight and are easily forgotten. It encourages skepticism toward people who talk a lot but do little.
"He who excuses himself accuses himself."
When someone offers an explanation or denial without being asked, it often signals guilt. This proverb suggests that an unprompted defense is an admission that the person has something to hide. It is a psychological observation used to detect lies.
"Where there was fire, ashes remain."
This is commonly applied to romantic relationships. It suggests that old passions never completely die out and can be easily reignited. It serves as a warning that reconnecting with an ex-partner often leads to a resurgence of old feelings.
"To foolish words, deaf ears."
This advice teaches how to deal with insults or ignorant comments. Instead of engaging or getting angry, one should simply ignore them. It empowers the listener to choose what they pay attention to, refusing to give power to negativity.
"The thief judges by his condition."
This proverb implies that untrustworthy people assume everyone else is also untrustworthy. It suggests that our judgment of others is a projection of our own character. If someone is constantly suspicious of theft, they may be a thief themselves.
"Better alone than in bad company."
Solitude is preferable to toxic relationships. This saying validates the choice to leave a bad partner or friend group. It emphasizes self-respect and the peace that comes from being alone rather than suffering the chaos of negative influences.
"Breed crows, and they will gouge out your eyes."
This dark proverb warns about the consequences of raising ungrateful children or helping ungrateful people. It suggests that benevolence given to the wrong people can result in betrayal. It is a cynical look at ingratitude.
"Whoever leaves for Seville loses his chair."
This playful saying is used when someone leaves their seat and another person takes it. On a deeper level, it warns that abandoning one's position or responsibilities creates a vacuum that others will quickly fill. It speaks to the competitive nature of maintaining one's status.
"When one does not want, two do not fight."
Conflict requires the participation of two parties. This proverb places the responsibility of de-escalation on the individual. It suggests that if one person refuses to engage in an argument, the fight cannot happen, promoting passivity as a peacekeeping strategy.
"He who has a glass roof should not throw stones at his neighbor."
This is a warning against hypocrisy. If one has vulnerabilities or faults (a glass roof), they should not attack others, as retaliation will shatter their own fragile defense. It encourages self-reflection before criticism.
Work, Effort, and Perseverance
"Don't steal, don't lie, don't be lazy."
These are the three fundamental laws of the Inca Empire (Ama Sua, Ama Llulla, Ama Quella). They are still cited today as the pinnacle of moral and civic duty. It links honesty and truthfulness directly with the capacity for hard work, suggesting that laziness is a moral failing equivalent to theft.
"Little by little, one goes far."
This proverb champions incremental progress. In a mountainous country where travel is difficult, taking small, steady steps is the only way to reach the destination. It encourages patience and persistence in long-term projects, validating that slow progress is still progress.
"The lazy man works double."
When a job is done poorly or hastily due to laziness, it inevitably has to be redone. This saying mocks the shortcut-taker, pointing out that their attempt to save effort resulted in more work. It is a promotion of doing things right the first time.
"God helps the bad when they are more than the good."
This cynical proverb suggests that sometimes sheer numbers or force can overcome moral superiority. In the context of work or politics, it implies that being "good" isn't always enough if the opposition is overwhelming. It is a realistic observation of power dynamics.
"He who wants blue celestial, let it cost him."
"Blue celestial" refers to the color of the sky, representing something rare and beautiful. This saying means that if you want something of high value or quality, you must be willing to pay the price in effort or money. It dismisses the idea of getting something for nothing.
"Shoemaker, to your shoes."
This advises people to stick to what they know. It warns against meddling in professions or topics outside of one's expertise. It promotes specialization and humility regarding the limits of one's knowledge.
"Doing nothing implies doing it all."
This can be interpreted as a Zen-like appreciation of rest, or ironically. In a work context, it often means that by stepping back and not interfering, you allow things to resolve themselves naturally. Sometimes the best action is inaction.
"The eye of the master fattens the horse."
A business or project thrives only under the direct supervision of the owner. This proverb warns against delegating too much responsibility. It suggests that employees will not care for the "horse" (the business) as well as the "master" (the owner) will.
"Jack of all trades, master of none."
This criticizes the generalist who dabbles in many fields but masters none. It encourages depth over breadth. It serves as advice to focus energy on becoming an expert in one area rather than mediocre in many.
"Whatever is worth doing at all is worth doing well."
This is a call for quality and pride in one's labor. It suggests that if a task is undertaken, it deserves one's full effort. Half-hearted work is viewed as a waste of time and a reflection of poor character.
"Necessity is the mother of invention."
Peruvians are famous for their "recurseo" (resourcefulness). This proverb highlights that creativity flourishes when resources are scarce. It explains how people find ingenious solutions to complex problems simply because they have no other choice.
"There is no worse effort than the one that is not made."
Regret comes from inaction. This saying encourages trying, even if failure is a possibility. It suggests that the act of attempting is valuable in itself, and the only true failure is the refusal to try.
"He who sleeps, does not catch fish."
Similar to the shrimp proverb, this emphasizes the need for alertness and activity to secure one's livelihood. It connects physical wakefulness with economic survival. If you are not out working, you will not eat.
"Sow winds and you will reap storms."
This agricultural metaphor applies to the consequences of negative actions. If you plant discord, chaos, or bad work, the result will be a catastrophe much larger than the initial action. It warns of the compounding nature of bad decisions.
"Don't leave for tomorrow what you can do today."
Procrastination is the enemy of progress. This proverb urges immediate action. It reflects the uncertainty of the future; since "tomorrow" is not guaranteed, the work must be completed while the opportunity exists.
"Cheap things turn out expensive."
This warns against prioritizing low cost over quality. A cheap item will likely break and need replacement, costing more in the long run. It encourages investing in durability and quality, whether in tools, clothes, or services.
"Practice makes the master."
Repetition is the mother of skill. This simple saying reinforces the idea that no one is born an expert. It democratizes success, suggesting it is available to anyone willing to put in the hours of practice.
"One grain does not make a granary, but it helps its companion."
This emphasizes the value of small contributions. While a single effort may seem insignificant, combined with others, it builds something substantial. It is a validation of collective effort and small savings.
"He who has a store, let him attend to it; if not, let him sell it."
Responsibility cannot be absentee. If you own a business or have a duty, you must be present to manage it. If you cannot commit the time, you should divest yourself of the responsibility.
"Work ennobles the man."
This proverb frames labor not as a burden, but as a source of dignity. It suggests that through work, a person gains self-respect and the respect of their community. It elevates the status of the worker regardless of their trade.
Nature and the Environment
"When the river sounds, it is because it brings stones."
This is used to validate rumors. It suggests that if people are talking about something, there is likely a kernel of truth to it, just as the sound of a river implies the movement of stones beneath the surface. It warns against dismissing gossip entirely.
"Every pig gets its San MartÃn."
Referring to the feast of San MartÃn where pigs are traditionally slaughtered, this proverb means that everyone eventually faces their judgment or downfall. It is often said about corrupt or evil people, implying that their time of punishment is inevitable.
"The sun rises for everyone."
This proverb expresses a democratic view of opportunity and nature. Just as the sun does not discriminate, life offers chances to everyone regardless of class or status. It is a message of hope and equality.
"A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush."
This reiterates the value of security over risk. In the context of nature, it highlights the difficulty of capturing what is wild. It advises cherishing what you have already secured rather than chasing what is elusive.
"Tree that grows crooked never straightens its trunk."
This implies that fundamental flaws in character or upbringing are permanent. If a child is not disciplined early, or if a project starts with a fatal flaw, it cannot be fixed later. It emphasizes the critical importance of early development.
"One swallow does not make a summer."
A single event does not establish a trend. This warns against generalizing from a solitary piece of evidence. Just because one good thing happened, it does not mean the struggle is over or the season has changed.
"The big fish eats the small fish."
This is a realistic observation of the hierarchy in nature and society. It acknowledges that the powerful often exploit the weak. It serves as a warning to be aware of one's position in the food chain.
"In the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king."
In a situation where everyone is ignorant, the person with even a little knowledge holds all the power. It highlights the relative nature of competence and leadership.
"Although the monkey dresses in silk, she stays a monkey."
You cannot change your essential nature by changing your appearance. This mocks those who try to appear more sophisticated or wealthy than they are. It insists that true nature always shines through the disguise.
"Don't look for three legs on a cat."
This advises against complicating things unnecessarily or looking for problems where there are none. A cat has four legs; looking for three is an exercise in futility and paranoia. It tells people to accept the obvious reality.
"Every sheep with its partner."
This suggests that people should stick with their own kind. It is often used to describe romantic pairings, implying that relationships work best between people of similar backgrounds or personalities.
"To the bad weather, a good face."
When the environment or circumstances are harsh, one must maintain a positive attitude. This is a proverb of stoicism. It suggests that while we cannot control the weather (or life), we can control our reaction to it.
"It rains upon the wet."
This describes situations where bad things happen to those who are already suffering. It acknowledges the unfair clustering of misfortunes. It can also mean reiterating something that is already known or done.
"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree."
Children resemble their parents. This is used to explain behavior, whether good or bad, by attributing it to family lineage. It reinforces the idea of genetic or diverse inheritance.
"Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors."
Adversity creates strength. This proverb reframes hardship as a training ground. It suggests that a life without challenges produces weak individuals, while difficulties forge character and skill.
"Don't count your chickens before they hatch."
This agricultural wisdom warns against banking on future gains. Until the result is finalized (the egg hatches), it is foolish to make plans based on it. It promotes caution in planning.
"The fox knows much, but more he who catches him."
This celebrates the triumph of intelligence over cunning. While the fox is clever, the hunter who catches him proves to be superior. It suggests that justice or preparation can outwit trickery.
"Dead dogs don't bite."
This grim proverb suggests that once a threat is eliminated, it can no longer cause harm. It is sometimes used to justify harsh measures to ensure a problem is permanently solved.
"Like father, like son."
Similar to the apple and the tree, this emphasizes the continuity of traits across generations. It serves as a reminder that we often cannot escape our heritage.
"Silence is golden."
In nature, silence often means safety. In human relations, keeping quiet is often more valuable than speaking. It suggests that speaking less prevents errors and commands respect.
Ethics, Caution, and Wisdom
"Lies have short legs."
A lie cannot run far before it is caught. This proverb teaches that dishonesty is unsustainable because the truth will eventually catch up. It is used to discourage lying by highlighting its futility.
"He who lends to a friend loses the money and the friend."
This practical advice warns against mixing finance with friendship. It suggests that debt creates awkwardness and resentment that ultimately destroys the relationship. It advises keeping money matters separate from personal bonds.
"Think before you speak."
The tongue is faster than the brain. This proverb urges impulse control. It reminds the listener that words once spoken cannot be taken back, so one should deliberate carefully before voicing an opinion.
"Caution is the mother of safety."
Being careful prevents accidents. This adage elevates caution to a survival strategy. It suggests that the prudent person is the one who survives and thrives, contrasting with the recklessness of youth.
"Not all that glitters is gold."
This warns against being seduced by superficial appearances. Just because something looks valuable or true does not mean it is. It encourages critical thinking and looking beneath the surface.
"He who doesn't owe, doesn't fear."
A clear conscience brings peace. If one has acted correctly and has no debts (moral or financial), they have no reason to be afraid of authority or judgment. It promotes integrity as the path to tranquility.
"Do good without looking at whom."
Charity should be indiscriminate. This proverb encourages altruism that is not calculated or biased. It suggests that one should help others simply because it is the right thing to do, not because of who the recipient is.
"Knowledge takes up no space."
There is no downside to learning. This encourages the accumulation of skills and education. Unlike physical objects, knowledge burdens no one and only adds value to the individual.
"Cheap is expensive."
Reiterating the value of quality, this ethical stance suggests that trying to cheat the system by paying less often results in a higher cost. It applies to moral shortcuts as well—taking the easy way out usually leads to harder consequences.
"Don't judge a book by its cover."
This is the classic plea against prejudice. It urges people to explore the content of a person's character rather than dismissing them based on their appearance or origin.
"A word to the wise is sufficient."
Intelligent people do not need long explanations. A hint or a brief statement is enough for them to understand the situation. It implies that if you have to explain too much, the listener may not be wise.
"Better to be alone than in bad company."
This is a moral stance on self-preservation. It is better to maintain one's integrity in solitude than to compromise it by associating with corrupt or negative people.
"He who sows winds reaps storms."
This is a warning about karma. It suggests that small acts of malice or irresponsibility will grow into massive problems that will return to destroy the perpetrator.
"Pride comes before the fall."
Arrogance blinds a person to risks. This proverb warns that those who are overly confident or boastful are destined to fail because they stop paying attention to reality. It advocates for humility.
"The truth hurts, but it doesn't kill."
It is better to face a painful reality than to live in a comforting lie. This saying encourages radical honesty, suggesting that while the truth causes temporary pain, it is necessary for growth and survival.
"Beware of the silent dog and still water."
Danger often lurks where it is least expected. A barking dog is obvious; a silent one bites without warning. This advises caution around people who are quiet or situations that seem too calm, as they may hide hidden depths or dangers.
"Ignorance is daring."
Those who know the least are often the loudest or most confident. This proverb criticizes the Dunning-Kruger effect, where incompetent people overestimate their abilities. It reminds the wise to be patient with the boldness of the ignorant.
"Patience is a virtue."
In a culture where things often move slowly or bureaucracy is heavy, patience is not just a trait but a moral imperative. It suggests that the ability to wait without anger is a sign of high character.
"Everything has a solution, except death."
This is the ultimate perspective. No matter how bad a problem seems, it can be fixed. The only irreversible event is death. It encourages people to keep fighting and searching for answers as long as they are alive.
"He who listens to advice reaches old age."
Wisdom is communal. This proverb suggests that longevity and success depend on the willingness to listen to the guidance of others. It warns against stubbornness and the refusal to learn from those who have gone before.
Conclusion
The proverbs of Peru are more than just witty sayings; they are the distilled essence of a civilization that has survived empires, conquests, and modern challenges. They reveal a people who are deeply practical, humorously cynical about power, yet fundamentally optimistic about the human capacity to endure. From the high Andes to the coastal deserts, these words bind the Peruvian people together, offering a shared language of morality and advice.
What makes this collection so powerful is its duality. It balances the fatalism of "What begins badly, ends badly" with the hope of "Tomorrow is another day." It balances the caution of "Think before you speak" with the warmth of "Love enters through the kitchen." To embrace these proverbs is to embrace the Peruvian spirit: resilient, wise, and ever-enduring.
We would love to hear from you. Which of these proverbs resonated most with your own life experiences? Do you have a favorite saying from your own culture that mirrors one of these? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.