Senza picciuli un sinni canta missa | Sicilian Sayings
Once again we are back to talk about Sicilian proverbs, those which once provided rules of life for getting through the day! An ancient folk wisdom whose most folkloristic aspect has certainly been preserved. Many remain relevant, but many other proverbs have lost some of their relevance. If you want to suggest our next Sicilian Saying, feel free to drop us an email or leave a comment!
Today we are going to talk about a popular saying, especially in the Palermo area.
Senza picciuli un sinni canta missa
Without money the mass will not be celebrated
This saying has its origins in the constant demands for money from priests: it is well known and sadly documented from ancient times that from birth through baptism and every sacrament, right up to funerals, money is demanded from those who perform the rites.
This is certainly not a nice thing, but the Palermitano, with his cheeky nature, knows how to laugh about it. This saying therefore applies to all those activities that are not provided without compensation, or especially as a response to someone who would like a service without paying anything.
Interesting, isn’t it? Have you ever heard this Sicilian saying? Let us know in the comments!