Traditional proverbs of Peru in Khmer and English — each with its meaning and source.
Ama sua, ama llulla, ama qhella.
“Do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy.”
The three core moral commandments of the Inca ethical code, demanding honesty, integrity, and diligence from every member of society.
Source: Inca moral code (Andean/Quechua oral tradition), widely documented; recorded by chroniclers such as Guaman Poma de Ayala and Garcilaso de la Vega
Hoy por ti, mañana por mí.
“Today for you, tomorrow for me.”
Help others when you can, because one day you will need their help in return — a reminder of reciprocity and mutual aid.
Source: Common Spanish-language proverb widely used in Peru; public-domain oral tradition
El que nace para maceta, no pasa del corredor.
“He who is born a flowerpot never gets past the hallway.”
A fatalistic saying suggesting that a person rarely rises beyond the station or limits into which they were born.
Source: Traditional Latin American / Peruvian proverb, public-domain oral tradition
Camarón que se duerme, se lo lleva la corriente.
“The shrimp that falls asleep is carried off by the current.”
If you are careless or inattentive, you will lose your opportunity — stay alert and act in time.
Source: Traditional Latin American / Peruvian proverb, public-domain oral tradition
El sol sale para todos.
“The sun shines for everyone.”
Opportunities, fortune, and the goods of the world are available to all people equally, without privilege.
Source: Traditional Spanish-language proverb used in Peru; public-domain oral tradition
Poco a poco se anda lejos.
“Little by little one walks far.”
Steady, patient effort accomplishes great things over time — perseverance beats haste.
Source: Traditional Spanish-language proverb used in Peru; public-domain oral tradition