A Little Book of Filipino Riddles in Modern English

Copyrighted 1909 by Frederick Starr

The Torch Press Cedar Rapids, Iowa Page 3

This Little Book of
Filipino Riddles
Is Dedicated To
Gelacio Caburian
Casimiro Verceles
Rufino Dungan
of
Agoo, Union Province Page 4

This Little Book of
Filipino Riddles
Is Dedicated To
Gelacio Caburian
Casimiro Verceles
Rufino Dungan
from
Agoo, Union Province Page 4

Although I had already inquired for them from Ilocano boys, my first actual knowledge of Filipino riddles was due to Mr. George T. Shoens, American teacher among the Bisayans. He had made a collection of some fifty Bisayan riddles and presented a brief paper regarding them at the Anthropological Conference held at Baguio, under my direction, on May 12–14, 1908. My own collection was begun among Ilocano of Union Province from whom about two hundred examples were secured. Others were later secured from Pangasinan, Gaddang, Pampangan, Bisayan and Tagal sources. My informants have chiefly been school-boys, who spoke a little English; they wrote the text of riddle and answer in their native tongue and then we went over them carefully together to make an English translation and to get at the meaning. Many Filipinos know how to read and write their native language, although few have had actual instruction in doing so. There is no question that errors and inconsistencies Page 5exist in the spelling of these riddles, due to this lack of instruction and to the fact that the texts have been written by many different persons. I am myself not acquainted with any Malay language. I have tried to secure uniformity in spelling within the limits of each language but have no doubt overlooked many inconsistencies. The indulgence of competent critics is asked. It has been our intention throughout to adhere to the old orthography. Thus the initial qu and the final ao have been preferred.

Although I had already asked Ilocano boys about them, my first real introduction to Filipino riddles came from Mr. George T. Shoens, an American teacher among the Bisayans. He created a collection of around fifty Bisayan riddles and presented a brief paper on them at the Anthropological Conference held in Baguio, which I organized, from May 12–14, 1908. I started my own collection among the Ilocano people of Union Province, where I gathered about two hundred examples. I later collected more from sources in Pangasinan, Gaddang, Pampangan, Bisayan, and Tagalog. My main informants were schoolboys who spoke a bit of English; they would write down the text of the riddle and answer in their native language, and then we would carefully go over them together to create an English translation and clarify the meaning. Many Filipinos can read and write in their native language, although few have received formal instruction. There’s no doubt that there are errors and inconsistencies Page 5 in the spelling of these riddles due to this lack of instruction and because the texts have been written by many different people. I’m not familiar with any Malay language. I’ve tried to achieve consistent spelling within each language, but I’m sure I’ve missed many inconsistencies. I ask for the understanding of knowledgeable critics. Throughout, we aimed to stick to the old orthography, so we have used the initial qu and the final ao.

The word for riddle varies with the population. In Ilocano it is burburtia, in Pangasinan boniqueo, in Tagal bugtong, in Gaddang ———, in Pampangan bugtong, in Bisayan tugmahanon.

The word for riddle changes depending on the language. In Ilocano, it's burburtia, in Pangasinan boniqueo, in Tagalog bugtong, in Gaddang ———, in Pampangan bugtong, and in Bisayan tugmahanon.

Riddles are common to all mankind. They delighted the old Aryans and the ancient Greeks as they do the modern Hindu and the Bantu peoples of darkest Africa. Many writers have defined the riddle. Friedreich in his Geschichte des Räthsels, says: “The riddle is an indirect presentation of an unknown object, in order that the ingenuity of the hearer or reader may be exercised in finding it out.... Wolf has given the following definition: the riddle is a play of wit, which endeavors to so present Page 6an object, by stating its characteristic features and peculiarities, as to adequately call it before the mind, without, however, actually naming it.”

Riddles are something everyone shares. They amused the ancient Aryans and Greeks just as they entertain modern Hindus and the Bantu people of deep Africa today. Many authors have described what a riddle is. Friedreich in his Geschichte des Räthsels, states: “A riddle is a way of presenting an unknown object indirectly, so that the listener or reader can use their cleverness to figure it out.... Wolf offers this definition: a riddle is a clever play on words that aims to describe an object by highlighting its characteristics and unique traits, allowing the audience to visualize it without actually naming it.” Page 6

The riddles of various Oriental peoples have already been collected and more or less adequately discussed by authors. Hebrew riddles occur in the Bible, the best known certainly being Samson's:

The riddles of different Eastern cultures have already been gathered and somewhat effectively analyzed by various authors. Hebrew riddles are found in the Bible, with the most famous one being Samson's:

“Out of the eater came forth meat,
And out of the strong came forth sweetness.”

“From the one who consumes came something to eat,
And from the powerful came something sweet.”

Arabic riddles are many and have been considerably studied; Persian riddles are well known; of Indian riddles at least one collection has been printed separately under the name Lakshminatha upasaru, a series of Kolarian riddles from Chota Nagpur has been printed as, also, an interesting article upon Behar riddles; Sanskrit riddles are numerous and have called for some attention from scholars; a few Gypsy riddles are known; two recent papers deal with Corean riddles. We know of but two references to Malayan riddles; one is Rizal, Specimens of Tagal Folk-Lore, the other is Sibree's paper upon the Oratory, Songs, Legends, and Folk-Tales of the Malagasy. This is no doubt an incomplete bibliography but the field has been sadly neglected and even to secure Page 7this list has demanded much labor. It suffices to show how deeply the riddle is rooted in Oriental thought and indicates the probability that riddles were used in Malaysia long before European contact.

Arabic riddles are numerous and have been extensively studied; Persian riddles are well-known; at least one collection of Indian riddles has been published separately under the name Lakshminatha upasaru, and a series of Kolarian riddles from Chota Nagpur has also been printed, along with an interesting article on Behar riddles; Sanskrit riddles are plentiful and have garnered some attention from scholars; a few Gypsy riddles are known; two recent papers focus on Corean riddles. We only have two references to Malayan riddles: one is Rizal's Specimens of Tagal Folk-Lore, and the other is Sibree's paper on the Oratory, Songs, Legends, and Folk-Tales of the Malagasy. This is likely an incomplete bibliography, but the area has been sadly overlooked, and even compiling Page 7 this list has required significant effort. It is enough to show how deeply the riddle is embedded in Oriental thought and suggests that riddles were likely used in Malaysia long before European contact.

To what degree Filipino riddles are indigenous and original is an interesting but difficult question. So far as they are of European origin or influenced by European thought, they have come from or been influenced by Spain. Whatever comparison is made should chiefly, and primarily, be with Spanish riddles. But our available sources of information regarding Spanish riddles are not numerous. We have only Demofilo's Collecion de enigmas y adivinanzas, printed at Seville in 1880, and a series of five chap-books from Mexico, entitled Del Pegueño Adivinadorcito, and containing a total of three hundred and seven riddles. Filipino riddles deal largely with animals, plants and objects of local character; such must have been made in the Islands even if influenced by Spanish models and ideas. Some depend upon purely local customs and conditions—thus numbers 170, 237, etc., could only originate locally. Some, to which the answers are such words as egg, needle and thread, etc., (answers Page 8common to riddles in all European lands), may be due to outside influence and may still have some local or native touch or flavor, in their metaphors; thus No. 102 is actually our “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall;” the Mexican form runs:

To what extent are Filipino riddles native and original is an intriguing but challenging question. As far as they have European roots or are influenced by European ideas, they come from or have been shaped by Spain. Any comparisons should primarily focus on Spanish riddles. However, we don't have many resources about Spanish riddles. We only have Demofilo's Collecion de enigmas y adivinanzas, published in Seville in 1880, and a series of five chapbooks from Mexico called Del Pegueño Adivinadorcito, which contain a total of three hundred and seven riddles. Filipino riddles mainly revolve around local animals, plants, and objects; these must have originated in the Islands, even if they were influenced by Spanish styles and ideas. Some rely on purely local customs and conditions—so numbers 170, 237, etc., could only be created locally. Others, with answers like egg, needle, and thread (answers common in riddles across Europe), may reflect outside influence but can still have a local or native touch in their metaphors; for example, No. 102 is basically our version of “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall,” while the Mexican version goes:

“Una arquita muy chiquita
tan blanca como la cal
todo lo saben abrir
pero ninguno cerrar.”

“A little tiny box
as white as chalk
everyone knows how to open it
but no one can close it.”

But the metaphor “the King's limebox” could only occur in a district of betel-chewing and is a native touch. Many of the Filipino riddles introduce the names of saints and, to that degree, evidence foreign influence; but even in such cases there may be local coloring; thus, calling rain-drops falling “rods,” “St. Joseph's rods cannot be counted,” could hardly be found outside of the tropics. Religious riddles, relating to beads, bells, church, crucifixes, are common enough and are necessarily due to outside influence, but even such sometimes show a non-European attitude of mind, metaphorical expression or form of thought.

But the metaphor “the King's limebox” could only exist in a place where people chew betel, adding a local flair. Many Filipino riddles mention the names of saints, which shows outside influence; however, even in those cases, there can be local flavor. For instance, referring to raindrops as “rods,” saying “St. Joseph's rods cannot be counted,” would likely only be found in tropical regions. Religious riddles about beads, bells, churches, and crucifixes are quite common and are definitely influenced by outside cultures, but sometimes they also reflect a non-European mindset, using metaphorical language or unique ways of thinking.

Everywhere riddles vary in quality and value. Many are stupid things, crudely conceived and badly expressed. Only the exceptional is fine. Examine any page of one of our own riddle books Page 9and you may criticize almost every riddle upon it for view-point, or form, or flavor. We must not demand more from Filipino riddles than from our own. Some knowledge of local products, customs, conditions, is necessary for the understanding of their meaning; when understood, they are fully equal to ours in shrewdness, wit and expression. Krauss emphasizes the fact that everywhere riddles tend to coarseness and even to obscenity and discusses the reasons. What is true elsewhere is true here; a considerable number of Filipino riddles are coarse; we have introduced them but emphasize the fact that any scientifically formed collection of German or English riddles would contain some quite as bad.

Riddles come in all sorts of quality and value. Many are just silly, poorly thought out, and badly written. Only the truly exceptional ones stand out. Take a look at any page from one of our riddle books Page 9, and you could critique almost every riddle on it for perspective, structure, or appeal. We shouldn't expect more from Filipino riddles than from our own. To really get their meaning, you need some knowledge of local products, customs, and conditions; once you understand them, they can match ours in cleverness, humor, and expression. Krauss points out that riddles everywhere tend to be coarse and even obscene, and he discusses why that is. What holds true elsewhere applies here too; many Filipino riddles are crude, but we should note that any well-researched collection of German or English riddles would include some that are just as bad.

Probably few of our readers have considered the taxonomy of riddles. Friedreich offers a loose and unscientific classification as follows:

Probably few of our readers have thought about how riddles are categorized. Friedreich provides a loose and unscientific classification as follows:

Page 10

Several of these forms occur in our collection.

Several of these types are present in our collection.

More scientific than Friedreich's work is Petsch's Studien über das Volksrätsel. His analysis and dissection of riddle forms best enable us to test the indigenous content of our Filipino riddles. He recognizes two fundamental riddle types. He says: “Two groups of riddles have long been distinguished in the collections, the true rhymed riddles and the short ‘catch-questions’ expressed in prose. The difference is not only in form but in content. ‘True riddles’ have as purpose the describing of an object in veiled, thought-arousing, perhaps misleading, poetical clothing, which, from this presentation of its appearance, its source, its utility, etc., shall be recognized by the intelligence, i.e., can and shall be guessed. ‘Catch-questions,’ on the contrary, are not to be guessed, the questioner intending himself to give the solution; at their best they are intended to trick the hearer, and since their solution is impossible to the uninitiated are not ‘true riddles’ but false ones. Since I propose to divide the total riddle material of each single nation between these Page 11two great chief groups, may I not somewhat extend the scope of the latter, including some things which are rejected from most collections as having little to do with actual riddles—those questions which are generally insoluble and such tests of wisdom as appeal not to wit and understanding, but to knowledge—which are certainly not true riddles. Thus, in the group here characterized as ‘false’ different classes of things are brought together, the characteristics of which I shall investigate later.” It would be interesting to quote the author's discussion further. We can, however, only state that he recognizes three classes of “false riddles,” to which he gives the names “wisdom tests,” “life-ransoming riddles,” and “catch-questions.”

More scientific than Friedreich's work is Petsch's Studien über das Volksrätsel. His analysis and breakdown of riddle forms allow us to better assess the indigenous content of our Filipino riddles. He identifies two main types of riddles. He states: “Two groups of riddles have long been recognized in the collections: the true rhymed riddles and the short ‘catch-questions’ presented in prose. The difference lies not only in form but also in content. ‘True riddles’ aim to describe an object in veiled, thought-provoking, and potentially misleading poetic language, which, through its portrayal of its appearance, origin, utility, etc., should be recognized by the intellect, meaning it can and should be guessed. ‘Catch-questions,’ on the other hand, are not meant to be guessed, as the questioner intends to provide the answer themselves; at best, they aim to trick the listener, and since their answers are impossible for the uninitiated, they are not ‘true riddles’ but false ones. Since I plan to categorize the entire riddle material of each nation into these two major groups, may I not broaden the definition of the latter to include some items commonly excluded from most collections as they are not closely related to actual riddles—those questions that are generally unsolvable and those tests of wisdom that appeal not to wit and understanding but to knowledge—which are certainly not true riddles. Thus, in the category labeled ‘false’ various classes of items are grouped together, the characteristics of which I will examine later.” It would be interesting to further quote the author's discussion. However, we can only note that he identifies three types of “false riddles,” which he labels as “wisdom tests,” “life-ransoming riddles,” and “catch-questions.”

Of “true riddles” there is a vast variety of form and content. Most typical is the descriptive riddle of a single object to be guessed. In its complete and normal form Petsch claims that such a riddle consists of five elements or parts. 1 Introduction; 2 denominative; 3 descriptive; 4 restraint or contrast; 5 conclusion. 1 and 5 are merely formal, trimmings; 2 and 3 are inherent and essential; 4 is common and adds vigor and interest. Such complete and “normal” Page 12riddles are rare in any language. Usually one or more of the five elements are lacking. It is only by such an analysis of riddle forms that a comparative study of riddles can be made. Any single riddle is best understood, by the constant holding before the mind this pattern framework and noting the degree of development of the case in hand.

Of “true riddles” there is a wide variety of forms and content. The most common type is the descriptive riddle that involves guessing a single object. According to Petsch, in its complete and standard form, such a riddle consists of five elements or parts: 1 Introduction; 2 Naming; 3 Description; 4 Restraint or Contrast; 5 Conclusion. The first and fifth elements are just formal aspects; the second and third are essential and inherent; the fourth element is common and adds energy and interest. Complete and “normal” Page 12 riddles are rare in any language. Typically, one or more of the five elements are missing. It is only through analyzing riddle forms that a comparative study of riddles can be done. Any single riddle is best understood by constantly holding this pattern framework in mind and observing the degree of development of the specific case at hand.

The Filipinos themselves recognize several classes of riddles. An old Tagal lady told us there were three kinds:

The Filipinos themselves recognize several types of riddles. An elderly Tagalog woman told us there are three kinds:

There is no science in this classification, which embodies considerable corrupted Spanish. Another informant recognizes six classes:

There is no science in this classification, which contains a lot of corrupted Spanish. Another informant identifies six classes:

These names call for little comment and the classification they embody is of the loosest. The word parabula is Page 13Spanish in source and equivalent to our parable; biniyabas is Tagal.

These names require minimal comment, and the classification they represent is quite broad. The term parabula comes from Spanish and is equivalent to our parable; biniyabas is Tagalog.

Some features of our riddles call for comment. Filipino riddles, in whatever language, are likely to be in poetical form. The commonest type is in two well-balanced, rhyming lines. Filipino versification is less exacting in its demand in rhyme than our own; it is sufficient if the final syllables contain the same vowel; thus Rizal says—ayup and pagud, aval and alam, rhyme. The commonest riddle verse contains five or seven, or six, syllables, thus:

Some aspects of our riddles deserve attention. Filipino riddles, in any language, are usually written in a poetic form. The most common type consists of two balanced, rhyming lines. Filipino poetry is less strict about rhyme than ours; it's enough if the final syllables have the same vowel sound. For example, Rizal points out that ayup and pagud, aval and alam, rhyme. The most typical riddle verse has five, six, or seven syllables, like this:

Daluang balon
hindi malingon

Daluang balloon don’t look back

or

Bahay ni San Gabriel
punong puno nang barel.

House of San Gabriel
full of guns.

Just as in European riddles certain set phrases or sentences are found frequently at the beginning or end of the riddle. In Ilocano and Pangasinan a common introductory form is “What creature of God” or “What thing made by Lord God,” the expression in reality being equivalent to a simple “what.” These pious forms do not at all necessarily refer either to animals or natural objects; thus, a boat or a house is just as good a “creature of God” as a fowl is. A common form of ending Page 14is “Tell it and I am yours,” “Guess it and I am your man.”

Just like in European riddles, certain phrases or sentences often appear at the beginning or end of the riddle. In Ilocano and Pangasinan, a common way to start is with “What creature of God” or “What thing made by Lord God,” which really just means “what.” These religious phrases don’t necessarily refer to animals or natural objects; for example, a boat or a house counts just as much as a bird. A typical way to end is “Tell it and I am yours” or “Guess it and I am your man.” Page 14

Quite analogous to calling inanimate or artificial things “creatures of God” is the personification of all sorts of things, animate and inanimate; thus, a rat is “an old man,” a dipper is “a boy.” Not infrequently the object or idea thus personified is given a title of respect; thus, “Corporal Black” is the night. Akin to personification is bold metaphor and association. In this there may or may not be some evident analogy; thus a crawfish is “a bird,” the banca or canoe is “rung” (like a bell.) Not uncommonly the word “house” is used of anything thought of as containing something; thus “Santa Ana's house,” “San Gabriel's house;” this use is particularly used in speaking of fruits. “Santa Ana's house is full of bullets” is rather pretty description for the papaya. The word “work” is often used for a thing made, or a manufactured article.

Similar to referring to inanimate or artificial objects as “creatures of God” is the way we give human traits to various things, both living and non-living; for example, a rat is called “an old man,” and a dipper is referred to as “a boy.” It’s not uncommon for the personified object or idea to receive a respectful title; for instance, “Corporal Black” represents the night. Related to personification are bold metaphors and associations. Sometimes there may or may not be a clear connection; for example, a crawfish is called “a bird,” and a banca or canoe is referred to as “rung” (like a bell). It’s also common to use the word “house” to describe anything thought of as holding something; for example, “Santa Ana's house” or “San Gabriel's house;” this usage is especially common when talking about fruits. Saying “Santa Ana's house is full of bullets” is a pretty way to describe a papaya. The word “work” is often used to refer to something made or a manufactured item.

Saints' names are constantly introduced, generally in the possessive case; examples are “Santa Ana's house,” “Santa Maria's umbrella,” “San Jose's canes.” Less commonly the names of other Bible worthies occur; thus “Adam's hair.” There is not always any Page 15evident fitness in the selection of the Saint in the connection established. San Jose's connection with rain is suitable enough. One would need to know a good deal regarding local and popular hagiography in order to see to what degree the selections are appropriate.

Saints' names are frequently mentioned, usually in the possessive form; examples are “Santa Ana's house,” “Santa Maria's umbrella,” and “San Jose's canes.” Less often, the names of other biblical figures are used; for instance, “Adam's hair.” There isn’t always an obvious reason for choosing a particular Saint in the context provided. San Jose's link to rain makes sense. To understand how appropriate the selections are, one would need to know quite a bit about local and popular hagiography.

Sometimes words without meaning, or with no significance in the connection where they occur are used. These may serve merely to fill out a line or to meet the demands of metre. Such often appear to be names of the style of “Humpty Dumpty;” these may be phonetically happy, as similar ones often are in European riddles, fitting well with the word or idea to be called up. Marabotania is probably meaningless, merely for euphony. Place names with no real connection with the thought are frequently introduced, as Pantaleon, Mariveles. “Guering-guering” and “Minimin” are merely for sound.

Sometimes, words that don’t really mean anything or don’t make sense in their context are used. These might just be there to fill a line or to fit a meter. Such words often resemble names like “Humpty Dumpty;” they might sound pleasant, similar to how words do in European riddles, and they can match well with the idea they’re meant to evoke. Marabotania probably has no real meaning, just meant to sound nice. Place names that aren’t genuinely related to the idea are often thrown in, like Pantaleon and Mariveles. “Guering-guering” and “Minimin” are just for their sound.

Particularly interesting and curious are the historia-vino given in numbers 312–317. No doubt there are many such. Those here given were secured from one boy at Malolos. When first examined, I believed the boy had not understood what I was after. He assured me that they were bugtong and bugtong of the best and finest class. The idea in these Page 16is to propound a statement in a paradoxical form, which calls for some reference to a bible story or teaching; the answer is not immediately clear and demands a commentary which is quite often subtle and ingenious. Friedreich gives examples of similar expository religious riddles from Europe.

Particularly interesting and curious are the historia-vino presented in numbers 312–317. There are surely many more like them. The ones shared here were obtained from a boy in Malolos. At first, I thought the boy didn’t understand what I was looking for. He assured me that they were bugtong, and bugtong of the highest quality. The purpose of these Page 16 is to pose a statement in a paradoxical way, which requires some reference to a Bible story or teaching; the answer isn't immediately obvious and needs a commentary that often turns out to be quite subtle and clever. Friedreich gives examples of similar expository religious riddles from Europe.

A curious group are the relationship riddles, numbers 286–289, which closely resemble trick questions among ourselves. The evidence of outside influence is here conclusive in the fact that the ideas and terms of relationship in them are purely European, in nowise reflecting the characteristic Malayan system and nomenclature.

A curious group are the relationship riddles, numbers 286–289, which closely resemble trick questions we ask each other. The evidence of outside influence is clear in the fact that the ideas and terms of relationships in them are purely European, not reflecting the unique Malayan system and terminology at all.

Some of the riddles are distinctly stupid. “I let the sun shine on your father's back” seems to mean no more than that the house roof is exposed to the solar rays. It is doubtful whether this means much even in the original Tagal. Of course many of the riddles demand for their adequate understanding a knowledge of native customs, which the outsider rarely has. Thus, until one knows a common method of punishing naughty children, the riddle “I have a friend; I do not like to face him” means nothing. Perhaps the most difficult to adequately present are some plays Page 17on words. These frequently need a considerable explanation. In some of these the parts of the word to guess are concealed in or are suggested by the form of the statement and one must extract them and combine them; such are “iscopidor” and “sampaloc.” In others the play depends upon homophony, the same sound or word have different meanings. In yet a third class the answer is a smart Aleck sort of an affair, “How do you take a deer without net, dogs, spear, or other things for catching?” “Cooked.” Most inane of all, but with plenty of analogues among ourselves, are those where the answer itself is introduced into the question with the intention to mislead; “Its skin is green and its flesh is red like a watermelon.” “Watermelon.”

Some of the riddles are clearly silly. “I let the sun shine on your father's back” seems to mean nothing more than that the house roof is exposed to the sun. It’s questionable whether this has much significance even in the original Tagal. Of course, many of the riddles require a knowledge of local customs for proper understanding, which outsiders usually lack. For instance, without knowing a common method of punishing naughty kids, the riddle “I have a friend; I do not like to face him” doesn’t mean anything. Perhaps the hardest to present adequately are some of the wordplays. These often need a lot of explanation. In some of these, the parts of the word to guess are hidden in or suggested by the way the statement is phrased, and you have to extract and combine them; examples include “iscopidor” and “sampaloc.” In others, the wordplay relies on homophones, where the same sound or word has different meanings. In yet another type, the answer is a clever twist, like “How do you take a deer without a net, dogs, spear, or any other tools for catching?” “Cooked.” The most pointless ones, but similar to those we have, are where the answer is included in the question to mislead; “Its skin is green and its flesh is red like a watermelon.” “Watermelon.”

Filipino riddles are mostly given out by young people. When several are gathered together they will question and answer; they are much in vogue when a young gentleman calls upon his sweetheart; among Tagals and Pampangans at least the chief occasion for giving bugtong is when a little group are watching at night beside a corpse. In propounding a riddle it is not uncommon to challenge attention by repeating as witty a rhyme, which is quite as often Page 18coarse as witty. One Tagal example runs:

Filipino riddles are mainly shared by young people. When a group comes together, they will take turns asking and answering questions; they're especially popular when a young man visits his girlfriend. Among the Tagals and Pampangans, the main time for sharing bugtong is when a small group is keeping watch at night beside a corpse. When presenting a riddle, it's common to grab attention by repeating a clever rhyme, which can be as crude as it is clever. One Tagal example goes:

Bugtong co ka Piro!
Turan mo ka Baldo!
Pag hindi mo naturan
Hindi ca nang iwang;
Pag maturan mo
May tae ang puit mo.

What a puzzle you are, Piro!
You’re a tricky one, Baldo!
If you can’t figure it out,
You’re left behind;
If you can solve it,
You’ve got your pants full.

I have a bugtong compadre P!
Guess it compadre B!
If you cannot guess it
You have not cleaned yourself;
If you do not guess it
You are dirty.

I have a riddle, buddy P!
Take a guess, buddy B!
If you can't figure it out
You haven't taken care of yourself;
If you don’t get it
You’re unclean.

We have mentioned two references to Malay riddles. Of the eight given in Rizal's paper five have been given us by our informants. As Rizal's entire paper will be reprinted in another volume of this series we have not copied the other three. Sibree's paper is important for comparison, since it presents matter drawn from the uttermost point of Malaysia, Madagascar, which has been unaffected by Spanish influence. Sibree's article is translated from a little book by another missionary, the Rev. Louis Dahle. Dahle's book is entitled Specimens of Malayasy Folklore and its material is presented in Malagasy Page 19only. Mr. Sibree translates twenty of his riddles. They are in character and flavor like many of the Filipino riddles. As Sibree does not give the native text and I have not seen Dahle's book, I cannot know whether they are rhymed. They are all of the type of true riddles to be guessed, descriptions wherein one or two characteristics or striking features are presented, either directly or figuratively. Examination of this little series deepens an impression already made by study of our own collection, namely, that the true riddles in our series are largely original Filipino while the insoluble riddles, the catches, the plays on words, are those where foreign influence is most evident. Although Sibree's article is easily accessible, we quote a few of these Malagasy examples for comparison.

We’ve noted two references to Malay riddles. Out of the eight included in Rizal's paper, five were provided by our informants. Since Rizal's entire paper will be reprinted in another volume of this series, we haven’t included the other three. Sibree's paper is significant for comparison, as it draws material from the farthest part of Malaysia, Madagascar, which hasn’t been influenced by Spanish culture. Sibree's article is translated from a small book by another missionary, Rev. Louis Dahle. Dahle's book is titled Specimens of Malayasy Folklore and contains material presented only in Malagasy Page 19. Mr. Sibree translates twenty of his riddles. They are similar in character and style to many Filipino riddles. Since Sibree doesn’t provide the native text and I haven’t seen Dahle's book, I can’t tell if they rhyme. All of them are true riddles meant to be guessed, descriptions that present one or two characteristics or striking features, either directly or figuratively. Examining this little collection reinforces an impression I've already formed by studying our own collection: that the true riddles in our series are mostly original Filipino, while the unsolvable riddles, the tricky ones, and the plays on words show the strongest foreign influence. Even though Sibree's article is quite accessible, we’ll quote a few of these Malagasy examples for comparison.

“Cut and no wound seen?” “Water,” is our number 231.

“Cut and no wound visible?” “Water,” is our number 231.

“The mother says let us stand up, but the children say let us lie across?” “A ladder.” and “At night they come without being fetched and by day they are lost, without being stolen?” “The stars.” are quite in the style and spirit of Filipino riddles. Compare “Coarse rafia cloth outside and white robe inside?” “Manioc root” with the “Poor Page 20outside; rich within,” “Langca” of the Ilocano.

“The mom says let’s stand up, but the kids say let’s lie down?” “A ladder.” and “At night they arrive without needing to be called, and during the day they’re missing, without getting stolen?” “The stars.” are very much in the style and spirit of Filipino riddles. Compare “Rough raffia cloth on the outside and a white robe on the inside?” “Manioc root” with the “Poor Page 20 outside; rich on the inside,” “Langca” of the Ilocano.

The order of presentation of these riddles has been a considerable problem. To arrange them rigidly in Petsch's order of development might have been fairly satisfactory but would have rendered the finding of any desired riddle difficult. We have struck out a crude arrangement in alphabetical order of the English answers, with subdivisions under some general headings. The arrangement is not scientific nor completely developed, but it will perhaps work fairly well in practice. The original text is first given for riddle and answer; the English translation of both follows; then are given such explanation and comment as are necessary. When a riddle occurs in different languages, the text of the question is given in one, but the fact of its occurrence in others is indicated.

The order in which these riddles are presented has been quite a challenge. Organizing them strictly according to Petsch's development order might have been somewhat acceptable but would have made it hard to find any specific riddle. Instead, we've opted for a simple arrangement in alphabetical order based on the English answers, with some general categories for easier navigation. This setup isn't scientific or fully developed, but it should work reasonably well in practice. The original text for the riddle and answer is presented first, followed by the English translation of both, and then any necessary explanations and comments. If a riddle appears in different languages, the question's text is provided in one language, but we indicate its presence in others.

We are indebted to many for assistance. The list is too long for individual acknowledgment. To our original Ilocano helpers this little book is dedicated. To Messrs. George T. Shoens, Francisco A. Santos (Calumpit), Rufino Santos (Arayat) and Conrado Benitez (Pagsanghan), we are so deeply indebted that their names must be mentioned. To Page 21school boys in Agoo, San Fernando (Union), Malolos, Manila and Tayug, we owe many thanks. Would that the publication of this imperfect collection might lead to their greater interest in a neglected section of their folklore. Some Malay worker ought to perfect and complete the work here begun.

We are grateful to many for their help. The list is too long for individual mentions. This little book is dedicated to our original Ilocano helpers. We owe a special debt to Messrs. George T. Shoens, Francisco A. Santos (Calumpit), Rufino Santos (Arayat), and Conrado Benitez (Pagsanghan), and we must mention their names. To the school boys in Agoo, San Fernando (Union), Malolos, Manila, and Tayug, we give many thanks. We hope this imperfect collection encourages them to take a greater interest in a neglected part of their folklore. Some Malay worker should refine and complete the work that has been started here.

This volume is the first number of a series of little books which the undersigned plans to bring out under the general title of Philippine Studies. Each number will treat of a distinct and separate subject; each will be independent. The extent to which the series will be developed, will depend upon the reception given to it and the degree in which it appears to respond to a real need. Two numbers at any rate are already arranged and the second should appear within a year.

This volume is the first in a series of small books that I plan to publish under the general title of Philippine Studies. Each book will focus on a specific topic; each will stand on its own. The future development of the series will depend on how well it is received and how much it addresses a genuine need. At least two more volumes are already planned, and the second should be released within a year.

Frederick Starr.

September, 1909. Page 22

September 1909. Page 22

Bernheisel, K. Korean Conundrums. Korean Review. 1905, pp. 81–86.

Bloomfield, M. Religion of the Veda, pp. 215–218. (Sanskrit Riddles.) Journal American Oriental Society, Vol. X, p. 172.

Bloomfield, M. Religion of the Veda, pp. 215–218. (Sanskrit Riddles.) Journal of the American Oriental Society, Vol. X, p. 172.

Dahle, L. Specimens of Malagasy Folk-Lore. Atananarivo, 1877, 8vo, pp. 457.

Dahle, L. Examples of Malagasy Folklore. Antananarivo, 1877, 8vo, pp. 457.

Del pequeno Adivinadorcito. Mexico. Five chap-books, 16mo each, 16 pp.

Del pequeno Adivinadorcito. Mexico. Five chapbooks, 16mo each, 16 pages.

Demofilo. Colleccion de enigmas y adivinanzas. Sevilla, 1880. 8vo, pp. 495.

Demofilo. Collection of riddles and puzzles. Seville, 1880. 8vo, pp. 495.

Friedreich, J. B. Geschichte des Rätsels. Dresden, 1860. 8vo, pp. viii, 248.

Friedreich, J. B. History of the Puzzle. Dresden, 1860. 8vo, pp. viii, 248.

Führer, A. Sanskritische Rätsel. Zeitschrift der Deutsch. Morganländer Gesel. 1885. pp. 99–102.

Führer, A. Sanskrit Riddles. Journal of the German-Morganländer Society. 1885. pp. 99–102.

Haug. Vedische Rätselfragen und Rätselspruche. Trans. Munich Academy, 1875.

Haug. Vedic Riddles and Riddle Sayings. Trans. Munich Academy, 1875.

Krauss, F. S. Allegemeine Methodik d. Volkskunde 1891–97, p. 112. Page 23

Krauss, F. S. General Methodology of Folklore 1891–97, p. 112. Page 23

Korean Conundrums. Korean Review. Seoul; 1906. pp. 59–60.

Lakshminatha upasaru. Collection of Riddles. Patna, 1888. 32mo, pp. 32.

Lakshminatha Upasaru. Collection of Riddles. Patna, 1888. 32mo, pp. 32.

Ludwig. Der Rig Veda. iii. pp. 390.

Ludwig. The Rig Veda. iii. pp. 390.

Mitra. Sarat Chandra. Riddles current in Bihar. Journal Asiatic Society, 1901, 8vo, pp. 33–58.

Mitra. Sarat Chandra. Riddles in Bihar. Journal of the Asiatic Society, 1901, 8vo, pp. 33–58.

Petsch, R. Studien über das Volksrätsel. Berlin. 1898, 8vo, pp. 139.

Petsch, R. Studies on the Folk Riddle. Berlin. 1898, 8vo, pp. 139.

Phillott, D. C. Persian Riddles. Calcutta, 1906. Journal Asiatic Society of Bengal, pp. 86–94.

Phillott, D. C. Persian Riddles. Kolkata, 1906. Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, pp. 86–94.

Rizal, J. Specimens of Tagal Folk-Lore. London, 1889, Trubner's Record, pp. 45–46.

Rizal, J. Samples of Tagalog Folklore. London, 1889, Trubner's Record, pp. 45–46.

Sibree, Jr., J. The Oratory, Songs, Legends and Folk-Tales of the Malagasy. London, 1883, Folk-Lore Journal, pp. 38–40.

Sibree, Jr., J. The Oratory, Songs, Legends, and Folk-Tales of the Malagasy. London, 1883, Folk-Lore Journal, pp. 38–40.

Two Gypsy Riddles. Journal Gypsy Folk-Lore Society, 1907, pp. 92.

Two Gypsy Riddles. Journal of the Gypsy Folklore Society, 1907, pp. 92.

Wagner, P. Some Kolarian Riddles. Calcutta, 1904. Journal Asiatic Society of Bengal, pp. 62–79.

Wagner, P. Some Kolarian Riddles. Calcutta, 1904. Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, pp. 62–79.

Ania iti pinarsua iti Dios a balin suec a maturog?

Ania iti pinarsua iti Dios a balin suet a maturog?

(Iloc.) Panniqui

Panniqui

What thing that God made sleeps with its head down?

What thing that God created sleeps with its head down?

Bat

Pantas ca man, at marunong bumasa at sumulat, aling ibon dito sa mundo ang lumilipad ay sumususo ang anak?

Pantas na tao, at marunong magbasa at sumulat, alin sa mga ibon dito sa mundo ang lumilipad at nagpapasuso ng anak?

(Tag.) Kabag

(Tag.) Head of Department

Although you are wise and know how to read and write, which bird in this world flies and yet suckles its young?

Although you are wise and know how to read and write, which bird in this world flies and still feeds its young?

Bat

Uppat iti adiguina, maysa iti baotna, dua iti paypayna, dua iti boneng.

(Iloc.) Carabao

Water buffalo

Four posts, one whip, two fans, and two bolos.

Carabao Page 25

Carabao

Apat na tukod langit at isang pang hagupit.

(Tag.) Kalabao

Four earth posts, two air posts and whip.

Four earth posts, two air posts, and a whip.

Carabao

Water buffalo

Saquey so torutoro duaray quepay-quepay a patiray mansobsoblay.

(Pang.) Dueg

One pointing, two moving, four changing.

Carabao

Water buffalo

The head points, the ears move, the legs change position.

The head points, the ears shift, the legs adjust.

Nu mat-tut-lud ay atanang udde; nu mat-tadag ay ibbafa.

(Gad.) Atu

If he sits down he is high; if he stands up he is low.

If he sits down, he's looking up; if he stands up, he's looking down.

Dog

Adda maysa nga parsua ni Apo Dios nga adda uppat a sacana, ipusna quen maysa nga ulona nga aoan ti imana.

(Iloc.) Caballo

Horse

There is one creature of our Lord God which has four legs and a tail and one head; but it has no arms.

There is one creature of our Lord God that has four legs, a tail, and one head; but it has no arms.

Horse Page 26

Horse

Carga nang carga ay ualang upa.

(Tag.) Babuy

Always working and no pay.

Always working and not paid.

The pig

He is ever eating garbage and waste.

He is always eating garbage and waste.

Eto na si “Nuno,” may sunong na guinto.

Eto na si “Nuno,” may dalang ginto.

(Tag.) Babuy

(Tag.) Baby

Here comes “Nuno” with gold on his head.

Here comes "Nuno" with gold on his head.

Pig

The pig is a constant scavenger and frequents the space below latrines and privies; it is a common thing that his snout is yellow as result of his search.

The pig is always scavenging and often hangs out under latrines and toilets; it’s pretty normal for its snout to be yellow from all the digging around.

Magmagna ni inam sangsangitam.

Magmagna your mom's singing.

(Iloc.) Burias

Burias

While the mother is walking the child is crying.

While the mom is walking, the child is crying.

A little pig

A tiny pig

Adda maysa nga lacay gomogoyod ti oay.

(Iloc.) Bao

Bao

There is an old man, who always drags rattan.

There’s an old man who always drags rattan.

Rat

Rodent

i.e. his tail. Page 27

i.e. his tail.

Kahoy cong Marigundong, na sangay ualang dahon.

(Tag.) Sungay

My tree in Marigundong (town in Cavite) has branches but no leaves.

My tree in Marigundong (a town in Cavite) has branches but no leaves.

Horn

The branching horn of a deer.

Deer antlers.

Maco ca quian, yacu naman ing quian.

(Pamp.) Ding bitis daring animal a tiapat a bitis nung lalacad ya.

Away! let me have your place.

Away! Let me take your spot.

The forward legs of an animal

The front legs of an animal

The hind feet tread in the prints of the forefeet.

The back feet step in the footprints of the front feet.

Nang hataken co ang baging nagkagulo ang matsing.

Nang hinatak ko ang baging, nagkagulo ang matasang.

(Tag.) Batingao

Batingao

When I pulled the vine the monkeys came around.

When I pulled the vine, the monkeys showed up.

Bell

Tinugtog co ang bangca nagsilapit ang isda.

Tinugtog ko ang bangka, nagsilapit ang isda.

(Tag.) Campana sa misa Page 28

(Tag.) Mass bell

I rang the banca and the fishes came.

I rang the bell and the fish appeared.

Bell

Banca is the canoe or boat; to strike it as with the pole is to ring it. People called to mass by the ringing bell are likened to fishes.

Banca refers to the canoe or boat; hitting it with the pole is like ringing it. People summoned to church by the ringing bell are compared to fish.

Togtoquec ti teppang agarayat ti bagsang

(Iloc.) Campana

(No modern equivalent)

I strike upon the washout and the bagsang come for help.

I come across the washout and the bagsang come to help.

Bell

The curved side of the bell is compared to a washed out slope or curve of the bank; the bagsang are small fishes; the bell is the church bell—the little fishes are the people.

The curved side of the bell is likened to a worn slope or curve of the bank; the bagsang are small fish; the bell is the church bell—the small fish represent the people.

Otin nen laquic Tapal ni baleuet ed corral manaquis, ya agnaecal.

(Pang.) Campana

Campana

Tapal's ——— hanging within the corral is crying to get out.

Tapal's ——— hanging in the corral wants to escape.

Bell

Tapal is a nickname for an old man.

Tapal is a nickname for an elderly man.

Adda tallo nga babbalasang quet no mapanda maquimisa; iti caoes ti maysa ata berde, quet dadiay maysa Page 29ata porao, quen dadiay maysa ata lomabaga; quet norommuardan ata malabaga amin iti caoesdan.

(Iloc.) Mamabuyo

Mamabuyo

There are three ladies who went to mass; the dress of one was green, of another white, of the other red; when they came out together the dresses of all were red.

There are three women who went to church; one wore a green dress, another a white dress, and the last one a red dress; but when they came out together, all their dresses were red.

Betel

Betel leaf

Nasatiyan pa nang kanyang ina, kinuha at pinapagasawa.

Nasatiyan pa nang kanyang ina, kinuha at pinakasalan.

(Tag.) Ang bungang isinasama sa itso

Still in his mother's body was taken and made to marry.

Still in his mother's body, he was taken and forced to marry.

Betel

Betel leaf

The areca nut is first taken out of its covering before being united with the betel leaf and lime.

The areca nut is removed from its shell before being combined with the betel leaf and lime.

Bulong tiptipparo; puso balasang baro.

(Iloc.) Mama

Mom

A tiptipparo leaf; the heart, a young man and a young woman.

A tiptipparo leaf; at the center, a young man and a young woman.

Betel

Betel leaf

Papel a berde sinoratac ti purao Page 30quet intedco iti sangaili dina insubli.

Papel na berde na sinurat sa purao Page 30 na nakatakip sa sangaili na hindi nakaligtas.

(Iloc.) Gaoed

Gaoed

I wrote a green paper with white: I gave it to my visitor and he did not return it.

I wrote a green paper with white ink: I gave it to my visitor and he didn't give it back.

Betel-leaf

Betel leaf

White lime is smeared upon the green leaf, which is then used to enwrap a bit of areca nut for chewing.

White lime is spread on the green leaf, which is then used to wrap a piece of areca nut for chewing.

Nagcapa dimet nagpadi; Nagcorona dimet nagari.

(Iloc.) Manoc

Gown but not priest; crown but not king.

Gown but not a priest; crown but not a king.

Cock

Rooster

Nancorona agimiet ari; nan capa agmuet pari.

(Pang.) Manoc

(Pang.) Hand

The king's crown but not king; the priest's cope, but not priest.

The king has a crown but isn’t a king; the priest has a cope but isn’t a priest.

Cock

Rooster

Ania ti pinarsua ni Apo Dios nga ag-gungon ti maquimbaba quet agpidot ti maquin ngato?

(Iloc.) Manoc

Chicken

What thing that Lord God made Page 31sifts below and picks up above?

What does the Lord God create that sifts through below and gathers from above? Page 31

Fowl

Poultry

Dinay pinalsay Dios ya managtay carne?

(Pang.) Manoc

What creature of God is with meat on its head?

What creature of God has flesh on its head?

Cock

Rooster

Ania a parsuo ni Apo Dios ti nagsusoon ti carne nga aoan ti imana?

(Iloc.) Tapingar

Tapingar

What creature of our Lord God carries meat but has no hands?

What creature of our Lord God has meat but no hands?

Cock

Rooster

The meat is the cock's comb.

The meat is the rooster's comb.

Uyana-uyana mamuntuk yang baya!

Uyana-uyana make it happen!

(Pamp.) Manuc

Here he comes with glowing charcoal on his head!

Here he comes with a glowing ember on his head!

A cock

A rooster

No umayac idiay balayo agtuptupuaccayo.

No fighting in the house.

(Iloc.) Manoc

Chicken

If I come to your house you will jump away.

If I come to your house, you'll jump back.

Fowl

Poultry

Ania ti pinarsua ni Apo Dios nga Page 32ipagnana ti bocotna?

Ania ang ginawa ng Diyos na Page 32para maipanganak ang kanyang anak?

(Iloc.) Baloto

Baloto

What creature made by Lord God walks on its back?

What creature created by God walks on its back?

Boat

Oalay asoc ya quisquis no onbatic tirakiang.

(Pang.) Baloto

(Pang.) Lotto

I have a hairless dog, who goes belly upward.

I have a hairless dog who lies on its back.

Boat

Naligo ang capitan hindi nabasa ang tian.

Naligo ang kapitan hindi nabasa ang tiyan.

(Tag.) Banca

(Tag.) Bank

The captain took a bath without his belly getting wet.

The captain took a bath without getting his belly wet.

Banca

Bank

Adda impatacderco a caoayan no agbolong intan.

(Iloc.) Parao

Parao

I set up a bambu; if it leafs out we shall go.

I set up a bamboo; if it grows leaves, we'll go.

Prao

The bambu set up is the mast; the leaf is the sail.

The bamboo setup acts as the mast; the leaf serves as the sail.

Nano nga cahoy nga con may dahon may gamut, pero eon ua-ay gani dahon ua-ay man sing gamut?

(Bis.) Parao

What tree is it, that when it has Page 33leaves it also has roots, but when it has no leaves it also has no roots?

What tree is it that when it has Page 33leaves, it also has roots, but when it has no leaves, it also has no roots?

Parao

Sail, rudder and oars.

Sail, steering wheel, and oars.

Nagalacat nagahayang.

(Bis.) Sacayan

He walks with his back.

He walks backward.

A ship

A boat

Manica maco tana,
tipa ca queti tana.

(Pamp.) Ancla

Anchor

Come up and let us go, go down and here we stay.

Come up and let’s go, go down and here we’ll stay.

Anchor

Ania ti pinarsua ti Dios a masicog ti licudan?

(Iloc.) Botoy

Botoy

What thing created by God has the fullness of pregnancy (masicog) behind?

What thing created by God has the fullness of pregnancy (masicog) behind it?

The calf of the leg

The calf

Masicog is the swollen abdomen of the pregnant woman.

Masicog is the bloated belly of the pregnant woman.

Bulong ti cappa-cappa nagtalicud nagpada.

(Iloc.) Lapayag

Lapayag

Cappa-cappa leaves placed back to back.

Cappa-cappa leaves stacked back to back.

Ears Page 34

Ears

Daluang balon hindi malingon.

Daluang balloon, don’t look back.

(Tag.) Tainga

Two wells, of which you cannot catch sight.

Two wells that you can’t see.

(Your) ears

Your ears

Pito iti taoana; taltallo iti requepna.

Pito in his person; three in his companions.

(Iloc.) Lapayag, agong, mata, ngioat

Lapayag, bell, eye, wave

There are seven windows; only three shut.

There are seven windows; only three are closed.

Ears, nostrils, eyes, mouth

Sipac nga sipac, saan nga mangeg ti caaroba.

(Iloc.) Mata

Eye

Claps and claps, but the neighbors do not hear.

Clapping and clapping, but the neighbors can't hear.

Eyes

Tepac cac tan tepac agnereguel na ybac.

(Pang.) Mata

(Pang.) Eye

Clapping and clapping but my companions cannot hear me.

Clapping and clapping, but my friends can’t hear me.

Eyes

Dalaua cong cahon bucsan ualang ugong.

(Tag.) Mata

(Tag.) Mate

I open my two boxes noiselessly.

I quietly open my two boxes.

Eyes Page 35

Eyes

Dalawang batong maitim malayo ang dinarating.

Two dark rocks approaching.

(Tag.) Mata

Two black stones which reach far.

Two black stones that extend far.

Eyes

Dalawang tindahan sabay na binubucsan.

Two stores opening at once.

(Tag.) Mata

Two stores are open at the same time.

Eyes

Adda dua nga Princesas quet nagseng nga tan da iti dua nga bantay; no agsangit iti maysa agsangit danga dua.

(Iloc.) Mata

(Mata)

There are two princesses, who live on the two sides of a mountain; when one cries both cry.

There are two princesses who live on either side of a mountain; when one cries, the other cries too.

The eyes

Adda dua nga pisi agtongpal idiay langit.

Adda dua na pisi nga agtongpal idiay langit.

(Iloc.) Mata

Eye

There are two halves; they go toward the sky.

There are two halves; they head up toward the sky.

Eyes

Vision

Malaon nang patay hindi maibaon at buhay ang capit bahay.

(Tag.) Bulag ang isang mata Page 36

(Tag.) One eye is blind Page 36

It is a long time since it died, yet it can not be buried for its neighbor is still alive.

It has been a long time since it died, yet it can't be buried because its neighbor is still alive.

One blind eye

One blind spot

Señora a samsamping addai ti uneg ti sarming.

(Iloc.) Taotao ti mata

People with vision

A samsamping is in the middle of the mirror.

A samsamping is in the center of the mirror.

The pupil of the eye

The eye's pupil

Daluang balahibuhen masarap pag daiten.

Daluang soup is delicious when hot.

(Tag.) Mata at kilay

Tag. Eyelash and eyebrow

Two hairy things, it's pleasant to have them meet.

Two furry things, it’s nice to have them come together.

Eyelids

Adda dua nga Princesa quet nagbaetanda ti maysa nga bantay quet daytoy a bantay adda met dua nga oaig quet no agsangit daguitoy a Princesa agayos met daytoy nga oaig ngem no saanda nga agsangit mamagaan daguitoy nga oaig.

Adda dua nga Princesa nga nagbaet ti maysa nga bantay, ket iti daytoy a bantay, adda met dua nga oaig; ket no agsangit daguitoy a Princesa, agayos met daytoy nga oaig, ngem no saanda nga agsangit, mamagaan daguitoy nga oaig.

(Iloc.) Mata quen agung

Eye and ear

There are two princesses with a mountain between them. In this mountain are two brooks and when the princesses cry these brooks Page 37flow and when the princesses do not cry the brooks dry up.

There are two princesses separated by a mountain. Inside this mountain, there are two streams, and when the princesses cry, these streams flow; when the princesses stop crying, the streams dry up. Page 37

Eyes and nose

Isang biyabas pito ang butas.

A guava has seven holes.

(Tag.) Mukha

(Tag.) Face

One guava with seven holes.

Face

Limang puno nang niog; isay matayog.

Limang puno ng niyog; isa'y matangkad.

(Tag.) Dalire

Five cocoanut palms; one is higher.

Five coconut palms; one is taller.

Fingers

Digits

Adda lima nga Principes nagcallogongda amin ti pisi.

Adda lima na prinsipe na nagtipon-tipon lahat sa pisi.

(Iloc.) Ramay

Ramay

There are five princes and their hat is one half.

There are five princes, and their hat is half of one.

Fingers

Digits

The nails are the hats.

The nails are the caps.

Adda maysa nga ealapati nga nagna ti tinga ti ili manocayo cona ti ari no adda mainayon nga pisi justo nga dua polo cami.

(Iloc.) Ramay

Ramay

There is a dove that walked in the middle of the town. How many are you said the king. If there is a Page 38half added we shall be twenty.

There is a dove that walked through the center of town. "How many are you?" asked the king. "If we add a Page 38half, we’ll be twenty."

Fingers

Ni ni conconana aoan ti matana

(Iloc.) Tammodo

Tammodo

Here, here, he says, but has no eyes.

Forefinger

Index finger

It points here and there, touching the things in question, but it cannot see.

It points this way and that, touching on the things at hand, but it can’t see.

Tata baculud ay ain-mena maita na ut-tunna si catanang-nga.

(Gad.) Quiray

A mountain the summit of which cannot be seen, being very high.

A mountain so tall that its peak is hidden from view.

Forehead

Tubo sa punso, ualang buko.

Tubo sa punso, walang buko.

(Tag.) Buhoc

Sugar-cane on clay, with no joints (knots).

Sugar cane on clay, without any joints.

Hair

Cahoy nga tambalisa, tapson indi malaya.

(Bis.) Buhoc

(Bis.) Owl

A plant which does not fade when cut down.

A plant that doesn't wilt when it's cut.

Hair

Iclog iti calao bolig iti lima.

(Iloc.) Ima Page 39

Ima

The calao's egg is five-parted.

The calao's egg has five parts.

Hand

The calao is the hornbill; the egg here in question is perhaps his strange head-excrescence.

The calao is the hornbill; the egg being referred to might be his unusual head growth.

Isang bayabas peto ang butas.

A guava has a hole.

(Tag.) Ulo

One guava with seven holes.

Head

Isa ca bungsud nga pito ang iya buho.

(Bis.) Olo

A small hill having seven holes.

A small hill with seven holes.

Head

Heading

Sica a tao ti yan ti minuterum.

(Iloc.) Puso

Heart

You are the man who has the minute-beater.

You’re the guy with the minute-beater.

Heart

Minuterum the pendulum beating.

Minuterum the clock ticking.

No agtacderac ania ngata ti omona a ipagnae?

(Iloc.) Mocod

Mocod

If I stand, what will be the first that steps?

If I stand, what will be the first step I take?

Heel

Daluang bangiasan nag hahagaran.

Daluang bangiasan na nag-hahagaran.

(Tag.) Binte Page 40

Binte

Two fence stakes chasing each other.

Two fence posts chasing each other.

Legs

Atian na ing gulut; ing gulut na ya ing atian.

(Pamp.) Bitis

Its front is the back, and its back is the front.

The lower leg (below the knee)

Adda oaig a bassit napnut bucbucaig.

(Iloc.) Ngioat

Ngioat

There is a small brook filled with shells.

There’s a little stream packed with shells.

Mouth

Isang balong malalem, punong puno nang patalem.

Isang balong malalim, puno ng patalim.

(Tag.) Bibig

A deep well is filled with chisels.

A deep well is filled with tools.

Mouth

Isa ca cahon-cahon nga punu sang tiguib.

(Bis.) Baba

(Bis.) Dad

A box full of chisels.

A box of chisels.

Mouth

Dua nga bobon napnot allid quen dagum.

(Iloc.) Agung Page 41

Agung Page 41

Two wells filled with wax and needles.

Nose

Baston ti Ygorot dica maparot

Baston ti Ygorot is a stick

(Iloc.) Bato

Rock

The cane of the Igorot, you cannot pull up.

The Igorot's cane can’t be pulled up.

Penis

Genitals

Mapatar ya dalin tinoboay garing.

(Pang.) Ngipuen

Ngipuen

Plain earth has grown ivory.

Plain earth has turned ivory.

Teeth

Umona nga aglaguis sa agdareedec.

(Iloc.) Ngipen

Ngipen

First place the bars and then the posts.

First, put the bars in place and then the posts.

The teeth

The comparison is with fence-building. Here the posts are first set, and then the cross-pieces. The babe has first smooth, horizontal gums; then the upright teeth appear.

The comparison is with building a fence. First, the posts are installed, and then the crosspieces are added. The baby starts with smooth, flat gums; then the upright teeth come in.

Nagapanilong apang basa.

Stay put but read.

(Bis.) Dila

He is under the shed but is always wet.

He is under the shed but is always soaked.

Tongue Page 42

Tongue

Enlongon empantion onbangon mansermon.

(Pang.) Dila

(Pang.) Tongue

Coffin in graveyard wakes up sermon.

Coffin in the graveyard wakes up the sermon.

Tongue

Na manantang ay maccatua udde na mannam ay malussao.

(Gad.) Attut

He who loses it rejoices, but he who finds it gets mad at it.

He who loses it is happy, but he who finds it gets upset about it.

Bad odor; breaking wind

Flatulence

Iti nacapocao agayayat quet iti nacabiroc agong onget

(Iloc.) ottot

ottot

Who loses it is glad; who finds it is mad.

Who loses it feels relieved; who finds it feels frustrated.

Bad odor; Breaking of wind

Foul smell; Passing gas

Magna sirirquep no nacalucat madi met.

(Iloc.) Mucat

Mucat

It walks while it is shut; when it is open it does not care to walk.

It walks when it's closed; when it's open, it doesn't bother to walk.

Secretion from eye corner

Eye discharge

Aso cong pute inutusan co, ay hindi na umue.

(Tag.) Lura Page 43

I sent out my white dog and he did not return.

I let my white dog outside, and he didn’t come back.

Spittle

Saliva

The practice of spitting, even unrelated to betel-chewing or tobacco-chewing, is far commoner among the Filipinos than among ourselves.

The act of spitting, even if it’s not related to chewing betel or tobacco, is much more common among Filipinos than it is among us.

Tinadtad a root insenpen a panonot.

(Iloc.) Libro

Book

Chopped grass hidden in the mind.

Chopped grass tucked away in the mind.

Book

Fodder or “food for thought.”

Food for thought.

Nagbulong nagbunga nanganac diay nangala.

(Iloc.) Pagbasan

Reading

It has leaves and fruits, Godfather took it.

It has leaves and fruit; the Godfather took it.

Book

Ania iti anac a pooranna iti baguis ni inana?

(Iloc.) Candela

Candela

What son burns his mother's intestines?

What kind of son hurts his mother so badly?

Candle

Tite nang pare, mapute.

Tite nang pare, white.

(Tag.) Candela Page 44

The priest's ——— is white.

The priest's robe is white.

Candle

Kung babayaan mong ako ay mabuhay yaong kamatayay dagli kong kakamtan, ngungit kung akoy pataing paminsan ay lalong lalawig ang ingat kong buhay.

Kung babayaan mong ako ay mabuhay, ang kamatayang biglaan ay tiyak na darating, ngunit kung ako'y mabubuhay na may pag-iingat, mas tatagal ang aking buhay.

(Tag.) Kandilang may sindi

(Tag.) Candle may be lit

If you let me live I shall soon die; if you kill me I shall live long.

If you let me live, I'll die soon; if you kill me, I'll live longer.

A lighted candle

A lit candle

Masondug a cayu talaque na donna.

(Gad.) Candela

(Candela) Gad.

A slender tree which bears only one leaf.

A thin tree that has just one leaf.

Lighted candle

Lit candle

Isang butel na palay punong puno ang bahay.

Isang butel na palay punong-puno ang bahay.

(Tag.) Ilao

A grain of rice fills the whole house.

A grain of rice fills the entire house.

Light

The flame of a candle is a little thing, comparable to a rice grain; yet it gives light to the whole house.

The flame of a candle is small, like a grain of rice; yet it illuminates the entire house.

Adda uppat a nga amigos; idi naparsua toy lubong inda naisigud.

(Iloc.) Uppat aturong Page 45

Uppat aturong Page 45

There are four friends; they have existed since the beginning.

There are four friends; they have been around since the start.

The four directions

The four cardinal directions

Aldao rabii agririaoac.

(Iloc.) Reloj

Watch

Day and night I cry.

I cry day and night.

Clock

Watch

Amanu na mararamdam, dapot masaquit yang intindian, nung ing lupa na ing quecang lauan a usta mu ing qucang sasabian.

(Pang.) Relos

(Pang.) Feels

His words are audible but difficult to understand; when you look at his face you will understand what he says.

His words can be heard but are hard to make out; if you look at his face, you'll get what he means.

Clock

Ania ti parsua ni apo Dios nga aoan ti imana nga aoan ti sacana quet ammona ti agsao?

(Iloc.) Leros = reloj

Leros = watch

What creature of God has no arms and legs, but can talk?

What creature of God has no arms or legs, but can speak?

Clock

Watch

Ang nagapahimo nagahibi; ang nagahimo indi iya; ang tag-iya uala Page 46sing calibutan.

Ang nagapahimo nagahibi; ang nagahimo indi iya; ang tag-iya wala Page 46sing calibutan.

(Bis.) Longon

Longon

The one who orders it made is crying; the one who has it, it is not his to give; the one who owns it does not care anything about it.

The person who requested it is crying; the person who has it can't give it away; the person who owns it doesn't care at all.

Coffin

Casket

Taong buhay inaanay.

Living person is being eaten.

(Tag.) Bulutong

(Tag.) Chickenpox

A living person being eaten up by “anay.”

A living person being consumed by "anay."

Smallpox

Anay, termites or white ants.

Termites or white ants.

Ania ti pagayatan na a mabalud.

(Iloc.) Ti masaquit

The smooth

Why does he wish to be in prison?

Why does he want to be in prison?

Pain

Dadiay adalem agassiquet; dadiay ababao agatengngned.

(Iloc.—also Pang., Bis.) Calzon; bado

Calzon; bado

What is deep reaches only to the waist; what is shallow comes to the neck.

What is deep reaches only to the waist; what is shallow comes up to the neck.

Drawers; jacket Page 47

Drawers; jacket

Daluang pipit nag titimbangan sa isang siit.

Daluang pipit ang nagtitimbang sa isang siit.

(Tag.) Hicao

Two pipits balancing on a bambu stick.

Two pipits balancing on a bamboo stick.

Earrings

Ear jewelry

The pipit is a small bird.

The pipit is a small bird.

Bumili ako nang alipin mataas pa sa akin.

Bumili ako ng alipin na mas mataas pa sa akin.

(Tag.) Sambalilo

Sambalilo

I bought a slave, taller than myself.

I bought a slave who is taller than me.

Hat

Cap

Aniat aramid a canennaca,

(Iloc.) Bado

Bado

What work devours you.

What work consumes you?

Camisa

Shirt

The word work is used in several of these riddles with the meaning of a thing made, a manufactured article. The camisa is a shirt.

The word work is used in several of these riddles to mean a thing made, a manufactured item. The camisa is a shirt.

Nacaquitaac iti dua a sasacayan; maymaysat naglugan.

(Iloc.) Zapatos

Shoes

I saw two boats; only one person was on board.

I saw two boats; there was only one person on board.

Shoes

Footwear

Dala mo siya, dala ca niya.

Dala mo siya, dala ka niya.

(Tag.) Bakia Page 48

You carry it it carries you.

You carry it, and it carries you.

Shoe

Sneaker

Dalan mucu, dalan da ca, mipa quinabang cata.

(Pamp.) Sapin

(Pamp.) Fir

Carry me, I will carry you; let us share alike.

Carry me, and I'll carry you; let’s share equally.

Shoes

Kicks

Con aga naga lapta, pero con hapon naga tipon.

(Bis.) Tuba

(Tuba.) Tuba

In the morning it is scattered in many places, but in the evening it is united into one place.

In the morning, it's spread out in various places, but by the evening, it comes together in one spot.

Tuba

An intoxicating drink made from cocoapalm sap; it is gathered daily. In the morning it is at the trees which yield; at evening it is brought in and stored.

An amazing drink made from cocoapalm sap; it's collected every day. In the morning, it's taken from the trees that produce it; in the evening, it's brought in and stored.

Adda maysa a balasang conana toy maysa a baro no ayatennac dacquel ti pagdacsam.

(Iloc.) Arac

Arac

There was a lady said to a gentleman “If you love me it will harm you.”

There was a lady who said to a gentleman, “If you love me, it will hurt you.”

Wine

Yti pagapugan ti Ari; Page 49no maluctan saan nga maisubli.

Yti pagapugan ti Ari; Page 49if it's opened, it can't be closed again.

(Iloc.) Itlog

Egg

The limebox of the king; if you open it you cannot restore it.

The king's limebox; once you open it, you can't close it again.

An egg

Adda bayabasco idiay Manila aoan ti pamorosanna.

Adda bayabasco diay Manila awan ti pamorosanna.

(Iloc.) Itlog

Egg

I have a guava in Manila that has no stem.

I have a guava in Manila that doesn't have a stem.

Egg

Ang balay sang encantadora ua-ay ventana ua-ay puerta.

Ang balay ng encantadora ay may bintana at may pinto.

(Bis.) Itlog

Egg

The house of an enchantress which has neither window nor door.

The house of a sorceress that has no windows or doors.

Egg

Lindus ne enetiran, dapot king asbuk ya milulan.

Lindus does not enter, waiting for a sign.

(Pamp.) Balulingi

Harpooning at it he missed it, but it went into his mouth.

Harpooning at it, he missed, but it ended up in his mouth.

Balulungi

The shovel-nosed shark. In aiming at food, if it really enters his mouth which Page 50is below the long and projecting snout, he must seem to miss it.

The shovel-nosed shark. When trying to eat, if it actually gets the food into its mouth, which Page 50is beneath the long and sticking-out snout, it probably looks like it misses.

Adda maysa nga lacay; puqiiis nga oacray.

(Iloc.) Corita

Corita

There is an old man; his hair cut short, the hair hangs.

There’s an old man; his hair is cut short, and it hangs down.

Corita

It is a fish, with slender, pendent, feelers.

It’s a fish with thin, hanging feelers.

Asino ti nabiag a togtogaoanna ti ngeoatna?

(Iloc.) Corita

Corita

What living thing sits on its mouth?

What creature sits on its mouth?

Corita

Ania iti parsua ni Apo Dios nga pispisi iti baguina?

Ania iti parsa ni Apo Dios nga pispisi iti baguina?

(Iloc.) Dadali

Dadali

What creature of our Lord God is but a half-body?

What creature of our Lord God is just a half-body?

Flounder

Nag saeng si pusong, sa ibabao ang gatong.

(Tag.) Bibingca

(Tag.) Bibingka

The clown cooked rice with the fire above.

The clown cooked rice over the fire.

Cake

Tignan, tignan, bago ngiuitan.

Look, look, before you shout.

(Tag.) Mais Page 51

(Tag.) But

Look at it first, before making a face at it.

Look at it first before making a face at it.

Corn

Refers to eating it from the cob.

Refers to eating it off the cob.

Piña piña marabotinia
no aoan dayta matayca.

Piña piña marabotinia
the day you die is not today.

(Iloc.) Bagas

Bagas

Piña piña marabotinia,
If there is none you will die.

Piña piña marabotinia,
If there's none, you will die.

Rice

Siasino ngata ti nagbuniag a daga?

Saan nga ag-explore ti daga?

(Iloc.) Asin

Salt

What earth has been baptised?

Which earth has been baptized?

Salt

Aniat cangatoan a recado?

Aniat cangatoan a message?

(Iloc.) Asin

Salt

What is the best spice?

What's the best spice?

Salt

Perlas yang maningning a ibat qung mina, nung mibalic ya qung penibatana matda ing ningning na.

(Pamp.) Asin

(Pamp.) Donkey

A sparkling pearl that came from the mine, in going to its source loses its brilliancy.

A sparkling pearl that came from the mine loses its brilliance as it goes back to where it originated.

Salt

The original source was the sea; but in water salt dissolves. Page 52

The original source was the ocean; but in water, salt dissolves. Page 52

Matebtibonec malimtimbocol bagobagooay tapuco anbalbalangay dalem.

(Pang.) Atsuete

Atsuete

Round, plump; hairy outside; red inside.

Round, plump; hairy on the outside; red on the inside.

Atsuete

A red fruit used for seasoning fish.

A red fruit used to flavor fish.

Ulo ng principe tinadtad ng ispile.

Ulo ng prinsipe tinadtad ng ispile.

(Tag.) Bunga ng bangcol

Head of a prince stuck full of pins.

Head of a prince covered in pins.

Bangcol

It is like a round ball stuck with pins.

It’s like a round ball poked with pins.

Dinan yan penalsay Dios ya loab tod tabla it say paoay toel equet.

(Pang.) Cabatite

What creature of God is smooth inside but like a net outside?

What creature of God is smooth on the inside but like a web on the outside?

A fruit. Cabatite

Agbibitin a sinanlagangan.

(Iloc.) Damortis

Damortis

Hanging like a pot-rest.

Hanging like a pot rack.

Camachilis (fruit)

Camachili (fruit)

Balay ni Santa Ana nalicmut ti caramba.

(Iloc.) Niog Page 53

Niog Page 53

Santa Ana's house is surrounded by a jar.

Cocoanut

Coconut

Langit ngato, langit baba, danom ti tengana.

Langit sa itaas, langit sa ibaba, tubig sa gitna.

(Iloc.—also Pang., Tag.) Niog

Coconut

Sky above, sky below, water in the middle.

Sky above, sky below, water in between.

Cocoanut

Coconut

Danum sadi Minimin, di mastrec ti angin.

Danum said Minimin, in the midst of the wind.

(Iloc.) Niog

Coconut

The water of Minimin, the wind cannot reach it.

The water of Minimin, the wind can't touch it.

Cocoanut

Coconut

Sang bata pa maniuang, anay sang tigulang na matamboc.

(Bis.) Lubi

(Bis.) Love

When young he is lean, but when he becomes old he is fat.

When he’s young, he’s skinny, but when he gets older, he’s overweight.

Cocoanut

Coconut

The meat of the cocoanut grows in thickness.

The flesh of the coconut increases in thickness.

Tatlong bundok ang tinibag bago dumating nang dagat.

Tatlong bundok ang winasak bago dumating ang dagat.

(Tag.) Niog

Three mountains were blown down before they reached the sea.

Three mountains were knocked down before they got to the sea.

Cocoanut Page 54

Coconut Page 54

The husk, the shell, and the meat are passed to reach the water within.

The shell, the outer layer, and the inner part are removed to access the water inside.

Pispisi a dalayap nagcatlo nagcapat.

(Iloc.) Buquel ti capas

Buquel ti capas

A half-lemon divides into three or four.

A half-lemon splits into three or four pieces.

Fruit of cotton

Cotton boll

Adda maysa nga banga nga bassit; Napno ti bato nga babassit.

(Iloc.—also Pang.) Bayabas

Guava

Here is a little pot; it is full of small stones.

Here’s a little pot; it’s filled with small stones.

Guava

Aling cacania dito sa mundo ang nacalabas ang buto?

Aling kakain dito sa mundo ang nakalabas ang buto?

(Tag.) Kasoy

(Tag.) Cashews

Which of his brothers in this world has his bones outside?

Which of his brothers in this world has his bones exposed?

Kasoy

Cashew

A fruit, the hard seed of which projects entirely beyond its outer surface.

A fruit with a hard seed that sticks out completely from its outer surface.

Isang ungoy nakaupo sa lusong.

Isang monkey nakaupo sa lusong.

(Tag.) Kasoy

(Tag.) Cashew

One monkey sitting on a mortar.

Kasoy

Cashew

The seed of the balubad or Kasoy suggests the figure. Page 55

The seed of the balubad or Kasoy implies the shape. Page 55

Babuy sa pulo, ang balahibu ay paco.

(Tag.) Langca

Wild hog, whose hairs are nails.

Wild hog, whose hairs are like nails.

Langca

Pobre ti rabaona mayaman ti onegna.

(Iloc.) Langca

Langca

Poor outside, rich within.

Rich inside, poor outside.

Langca

Tinadtad ti rabaona, lauya ti onegna.

(Iloc.,—also Pang.) Langca

Langca

Minced outside; lauya within.

Minced outside; lauya inside.

Langca

Lauya; meat on bones, thoroughly cooked in water with vinegar and spices. Langca is a large sort of breadfruit.

Lauya; meat on bones, fully cooked in water with vinegar and spices. Langca is a large type of breadfruit.

Agbibitin nga oging.

(Iloc.,—also Pang.) Longboy

Longboy

Charcoal hanging.

Charcoal on display.

Longboy

A plum-like fruit.

A fruit like a plum.

Adda inbitin co nga langdet tangtangaden ti baboaquet.

Adda inbitin ko nga langdet tangtangaden ti baboaquet.

(Iloc.) Longboy

Longboy

I hang up a chopping-block: the old women look up at it.

I hang up a cutting board: the older women glance up at it.

Longboy Page 56

Longboy

Hindi hayop, hindi tao,
Nag dadamit ng de pano.

Hindi hayop, hindi tao,
Nagtatago sa kahabaan ng pano.

(Tag.) Mabalo

Not an animal, not a man,
Yet it is clad in velvet.

Not an animal, not a human,
Yet it is dressed in velvet.

Mabalo

A fruit somewhat like a peach.

A fruit that looks a bit like a peach.

Agbibiten a puso.

It strikes the heart.

(Iloc.) Manga

Manga

A heart hanging.

A heart in suspension.

Mango

Mangoes

Isang cabang señorito, pulus may sombrero.

Isang cabang señorito, pulos may sombrero.

(Tag.) Bunga

(Tag.) Flower

A group of little gentlemen, all with their hats.

A group of young gentlemen, all wearing their hats.

Palmnuts

Palm nuts

Bahay ni Santa Ana punong puno nang bala.

Bahay ni Santa Ana puno ng bala.

(Tag.) Papaya

Santa Ana's house is full of bullets.

Santa Ana's house is packed with bullets.

Papaya

The papaya contains abundance of round, shining, black seeds the size of buckshot or larger.

The papaya has plenty of round, shiny black seeds that are the size of buckshot or even bigger.

Metung a bulsa mitmu yang paminta.

(Pamp.) Kapaya Page 57

A pocket full of peppercorns.

A pocket full of pepper.

Papaya

The round black seeds of the papaya are the peppercorns.

Abongnin Doña Maria alictob na botilla.

Abongnin Doña Maria le echó un vistazo a la botella.

(Pang.) Apayas

Doña Maria's house is surrounded by a bottle.

Papaya

Papaya fruit

Balay ni Santa Maria nalicmut ti espada.

Balay ni Santa Maria naglabas ti espada.

(Iloc.,—also Pang., Gad., Bis.) Piña

Pineapple

Santa Maria's house is surrounded by swords.

Pineapple

Señora a nasam-sam-it addat oneg ti siit.

(Iloc.) Piña

Pineapple

A sweet lady among the thorns.

A kind woman among the prickly thorns.

Pineapple

Isang dalagang may corona at caloob saan ay may mata.

Isang dalagang may korona at regalo na may magandang mata.

(Tag.) Piña

(TikTok.) Piña

The lady with a crown has eyes everywhere.

The woman with a crown has eyes all around.

Pineapple Page 58

Pineapple

Agbibiten a danog.

(Iloc.) Santol

Santol

A fist hanging.

A clenched fist.

Santol

Sanskrit

Bahay ni Sang Gabriel, punong puno nang barel.

Bahay ni Sang Gabriel, full of guns.

(Tag.) Lucban

San Gabriel's house is full of guns.

San Gabriel's house is packed with guns.

Shaddock

Con adlao naga uba, pero con gabi naga saya.

(Bis.) Catre; mosquitero

(Bis.) Bed; mosquito net

During the day she is naked, but at night she puts on her skirt.

During the day, she’s naked, but at night she puts on her skirt.

Bed; mosquito bar

Bed; mosquito net

Aso co sa pantalan, lumucso nang pitong balon, umuli nang pitong gubat, bago nag tanao dagat.

Aso at sa pantalan, lumusong ng pitong balon, umuli ng pitong gubat, bago tumingin sa dagat.

(Tag.) Sungkahan

My dog from the wharf jumped over seven wells, jumped again over seven forests, before it saw the sea.

Mancala

Mancala Game

This well-known game is played upon a Page 59board in which a number of round pits are scooped out; two lines of seven of these are placed side by side.

This popular game is played on a Page 59board with a series of round pits dug into it; two rows of seven pits are arranged next to each other.

Bumile ako nang bigas, bigas din ang ibinayad.

Bumili ako ng bigas, bigas din ang binayaran.

(Tag.) Ang pagbibigay nang magandang arao o gabi sa kanino man.

(Tag.) Giving a good day or night to anyone.

I bought rice with rice.

I bought rice.

The exchange of greeting—good morning or good night.

The exchange of greetings—good morning or good night.

Taray nga taray di met macaalis.

Taray na taray hindi rin matanggal.

(Iloc.) Indayon

Indulge

Running and running, but it cannot go away.

Running and running, but it just won’t go away.

Hammock

Adda caballoc a labang agsinanpontol panalian.

(Iloc.) Indayon

Indayen

I have a gray horse; I can halter him at both ends.

I have a gray horse, and I can put a halter on him at both ends.

Hammock

Kabac na niog magdamag na kinayod.

(Tag.) Buan Page 60

Half-a-cocoanut, retreating slowly all night.

Half a coconut, retreating slowly all night.

Moon

Kabiac na niog, magdamag na ipod nang ipod.

(Tag.) Buan

A half-cocoanut, scraped the whole night.

A half coconut, grated all night.

Moon

The moon keeps freshly white, like cocoanut meat just scraped.

The moon stays a bright white, like freshly scraped coconut meat.

Sancagalip a rabong sila oanna amin a lobong.

(Iloc.) Bulan

Moon

A half section of a bambu shoot illuminates the whole world.

A half section of a bamboo shoot lights up the entire world.

Moon

Adda pisi a dalayap nga incalic; tal-lo a papadi dina macali.

(Iloc.) Bulan

Moon

I planted a half-lemon; three priests cannot dig it up.

I planted a half-lemon; three priests can't dig it up.

Moon

Letrang C a maging O, O maging C.

Letrang C can become O, O can become C.

(Pamp.,—also Tag.) Bulan

Bulan

The letter C becomes O, O becomes C.

The letter C turns into O, and O turns into C.

The Moon Page 61

The Moon

Sim-migpatac ti tanobong silaoco a nagodong; sim-migpatac ti alodig, silaoco nga nagaoid.

(Iloc.) Bulan quen bituen

Moon and stars

I chop a tanobong for light when I go to town; I chop an alodig for light when I go home.

Moon and stars

A tanobong is a sort of bambu; alodig is a small bush.

A tanobong is a type of bamboo; alodig is a small shrub.

Adda maysa nga dalayap imporoac co idiay tayac no may bagam cucuanac.

(Iloc.) Bulan

Moon

There was a lemon which I threw out into the wide plain. Guess it and I shall be yours.

There was a lemon that I threw out into the open field. Guess what it is and I’ll be yours.

Moon

Ako ay naghasik nang mais, pagka umaga ay palis.

Ako ay nagtatanim ng mais, sa umaga ay pinu-pulis.

(Tag.) Bituin

(Tag.) Star

I sowed maize grains; in the morning they were swept away.

I planted corn seeds; by morning, they were all gone.

Stars

The stars, grains of maize, disappear with the dawn. Page 62

The stars, like grains of corn, vanish with the sunrise. Page 62

Sangaplato nga busi maoarasanna amin ti inilinili.

(Iloc.) Bituen

Bituin

A plate of roasted rice can be spread all over the town.

A plate of roasted rice can be shared all around town.

Stars

Mayaquit alila nung ing sumbu macaslag ya, dapot nung capilan milaco ya carin la paquit.

(Pamp.) Batuin at aldo

(Pamp.) Rock and sun

When the lamp is shining they can scarcely be seen, but when it is taken away they become visible.

When the lamp is on, they can barely be seen, but when it’s taken away, they become visible.

Stars and sun

Abong nen Don Juan agnalocasan.

Abong and Don Juan are fighting.

(Pang.) Aguco

Don Juan's house, you cannot open.

Don Juan's house can't be opened.

Sun

Sunshine

Caoayan queling agnataquiling.

Caoayan is a beautiful place.

(Pang.) Agueo

Agueo

You cannot look directly at caoayan queling.

You can't look directly at caoayan queling.

Sun

A sort of bambu, of great diameter.

A type of bamboo, with a large diameter.

Isbu ti andidit di masirip.

(Iloc.) Ynit

Ynit

Andidit's urine cannot be looked at.

Andidit's urine is off-limits.

Sun

Sunshine

The andidit is a cricket. Page 63

The andidit is a cricket.

Kung ako ay iyong pakatitigan pagkita sa akiy di mapapalaran.

Kung ako ay iyong titigan sa pagkikita, hindi ako mapapalad.

(Tag.) Arao

If you look at me, you cannot see me.

If you look at me, you can’t really see me.

Sun

Sunshine

Nagmulaac iti saba idiay daya saan a nagbunga ta naabac ti cuenta, nagmulaac iti niog idiay laud saan a nagugut ta naabac iti panonotna.

Nagmula ako ng saging sa kanan pero hindi ito namunga dahil naabala ako sa mga bagay ko, nagtanim ako ng niyog sa kaliwa pero hindi ito umusbong dahil naabala ang isip ko.

(Iloc.) Ynit quen bulan

Ynit quen bulan

I planted a banana in the east and it did not fruit for it lost the count and I planted a cocoanut in the west and it did not sprout because it lost its mind.

I planted a banana tree in the east, but it didn’t bear fruit because it lost track of time. I planted a coconut tree in the west, but it didn’t grow because it lost its way.

Sun and moon

Tapat nga guindadugangan tapat nga nagamag-an.

(Bis.) Buho

(Bis.) Owl

The larger it grows, the lighter it becomes.

The bigger it gets, the lighter it becomes.

A hole

A gap

Dinan yan penalsay Dios ya say quenantoit maengal?

(Pang.) Abong

Abong

What creature of God, having eaten makes a noise?

What creature of God makes a noise after eating?

House Page 64

House

Ama iti pinarsua ni Apo Dios nga agtagtagari ti quin nanna?

(Iloc.) Balay

Home

What creature of Lord God has talking its food?

What creature of the Lord God has spoken about its food?

House

Home

Ama iti parsua ni Apo Dios nga umona nga agsilia sa agap-ap.

(Iloc.) Balay

House

What creature of Lord God puts the saddle first and then the blanket?

What creature of Lord God puts the saddle on first and then the blanket?

House

Home

The roof of a house is built before the walls.

The roof of a house is put up before the walls.

Naligo ang Kapitan hindi binasa ang tiyan.

Naligo ang Kapitan walang sinabing anuman.

(Tag.) Sahig

(Tag.) Space

The Captain took a bath, but did not wet his belly.

The Captain took a bath, but he didn't get his belly wet.

Floor

When being scrubbed with water, the bambu is as promptly dry as a duck's back.

When scrubbed with water, the bamboo dries as quickly as a duck's back.

Hindi hayop, hindi tao nag ngangalan nang Tranquilino.

(Tag.) Trangk'a nang pinto

(Tag.) Open the door

Not animal, not man; its name is Tranquilino.

Not an animal, not a man; its name is Tranquilino.

Lock of door

Door lock

Mere resemblance in sound between Page 65Tranquilino, a personal name, and Trangka—a lock.

Kung sino ang naunang umakiat siyang nahuli sa lahat.

Kung sino ang naunang umakyat siya ang nahuli sa lahat.

(Tag.) Pagaatip

(Tag.) Digging

He who climbed first became the last.

He who climbed first ended up being the last.

Nipa thatching

Nipa palm roofing

In roofing the work begins at the lower part and ends at the ridge.

In roofing, the work starts at the bottom and ends at the peak.

Adda ay ayatec nga gayyem (amigo) ngem saanco a cayat a casango.

Adda ay ayatec nga gayyem (amigo) ngem saanko a kayat a casango.

(Iloc.) Adigi

Adigi

I have a loving friend but I do not wish to face him.

I have a caring friend, but I don't want to confront him.

Post

A post in the house construction. Mothers punish naughty children by standing them in the corner facing the post.

A post in the house construction. Mothers discipline misbehaving children by making them stand in the corner facing the post.

Quimmali siramari quimmagat.

(Iloc.) Adigi

Adigi

Set into the ground, breaks through, and bites.

Post

A post in house construction meets the requirement. It is firmly planted, penetrates flooring, and clutches and holds a rafter or other pole. Page 66

A post in house construction fits the bill. It's securely anchored, goes through the flooring, and supports and holds a rafter or another beam. Page 66

Atin cung metung a caballero pabanua yang makakabayo, dapot eya mamako.

Atin yang isang knight na may kabayo, pero hindi siya marunong sumakay.

(Pamp.) Pakabayu ning bubungan

I have a horseman who has been riding for a year but has not gone a bit.

I have a horseman who has been riding for a year but hasn't gone anywhere.

Rider of bambu, over the ridge to keep the nipa from being blown away.

Rider of bamboo, over the hill to prevent the nipa from being blown away.

Balubog nang ama mo, pina arawan co.

Balubog ng ama mo, pinapaarawan ko.

(Tag.) Palupo nang babay

(Tag.) Palupo ng babae

I let the sunshine on your father's back; i.e. the sun shines on your father's back.

I let the sun shine on your father's back; that is, the sun shines on your father's back.

The long poles at the roof crest of the house.

The long poles at the top of the house.

These poles are the “father's back;” they are directly exposed to the sun's rays.

These poles are the "father's back;" they are directly in the sun.

No omoli baro, no omolog balo.

(Iloc.) Atep

Atep

When it ascends it is new (young); When it goes down it is a widow.

When it rises, it's new (young); when it sets, it's a widow.

Roof Page 67

Roof

Minalemae nga agtacop binigatac met nga agpiguis.

(Iloc.) Tandoc

Tandoc

I mend it every evening, I tear it every morning.

I fix it every evening, I rip it every morning.

Window

Na labi mansacabac; no agueo manpilatae.

(Pang.) Ventana

(Pang.) Window

At night closed; in day open.

At night it's closed; during the day it's open.

Window

Abosta kippit, Comalcalipkip.

(Iloc.) Riquep

Riquep

Although thin, it can slide.

Even though it's thin, it can slide.

Window shutter

Window blind

Ypacapetco toy colisipeo dita bocotmo maimbagan ta nasaquitmo.

(Iloc.) Tandec

Tandec

I place my colisipco upon your back and it cures your illness.

I put my colisipco on your back, and it heals your sickness.

Cupping-horn

Cupping horn

Colisipco is a slender bambu sucking tube. Tandoc is a piece of horn for blood-letting. Page 68

Colisipco is a thin bamboo drinking straw. Tandoc is a horn tool used for bloodletting. Page 68

Adda maysa nga amigoc no icaraed cod toy olic, maornos datoy booc.

(Iloc.) Sagaysay

Sagaysay

I have a friend and when I arrange my head, my hair is in order.

I have a friend, and when I fix my hair, it looks good.

Comb

Aniat ina ni saba?

How's it going, Saba?

(Iloc.) Ni daga

Dirt

Quet ania met ti amana?

What is your name?

Barrita

Snack bar

What is the mother of the banana?

The earth

The planet

And what its father?

And what about its father?

Digging-stick

Digging tool

Tombong con tombong manpilicay gustum.

Tombong with tombong manpilicay gustum.

(Pang.) Agniob

Intestine (gut) choose what you want.

Fire-blower

Fire breather

It is a simple tube of bambu.

It is a simple bamboo tube.

Magdala ya laman mete, mamita yang laman mabie.

(Pamp.) Mamaduas ing apana ating asan a dumamit.

He carries the flesh of the dead, but seeks the flesh of the living.

He carries the bodies of the dead, but searches for the bodies of the living.

Fishline Page 69

Fishline

Banga sadi Sinait, naapinan ti nangisit.

(Iloc.) Tintiroan

Tintiroan

A pot from Sinait, lined with black.

A pot from Sinait, with a black lining.

Ink bottle

Adda bassit nga quita nga casla tisa ngem mabalinna nga ayoanan ti maysa nga balasang nga casla mangayoan a cas maysa nga leon.

(Iloc.) Tulbec

Tulbec

There is a little thing like a piece of crayon, but it can guard a lady like a lion.

There’s a small thing, kind of like a crayon, but it can protect a woman like a lion.

Key

Hindi madangkal, hindi madipa, pinag-tutuangan nang lima.

(Tag.) Carayom

You can not span it, you cannot measure it by your outstretched arms, and it is being carried by five.

You can't reach it, you can't measure it with your outstretched arms, and it's being carried by five.

Needle

Syringe

Begut nc ing andang tinuki ya ing ubingan.

(Pamp.) Carayum ampong sinulad.

Carayum is a written expression.

He pulled out a stick and it was followed by a snake.

He pulled out a stick, and a snake came right after it.

Needle and thread Page 70

Sewing supplies Page 70

Na una ang trozo sa manghihila.

(Tag.,—also Bis., Pang.) Carayom

The log comes first, then the hauling cable.

The log goes first, followed by the hauling cable.

Needle (and thread)

Sewing supplies

Tinoduc ni ampalocneng ti obet ni ampatang quen.

(Iloc.) Dagum

Dagum

The soft one is thrust through the anus of the hard one.

The soft one is pushed through the hard one's anus.

Needle and thread

Sewing supplies

Ania nga abut iti tacopan iti iapadana nga abut?

(Iloc.) Iquet

Iquet

What hole do you mend with holes?

What gap do you fix with more gaps?

Net

Magmagnaac mangibatbatiac ti magnaac agbalbalicas.

(Iloc.) Pluma

Pen

I am walking leaving tracks where I walk.

I am walking, leaving footprints behind me.

Pen

Mangipatacderac ti adigi madomadoma a corte.

(Iloc.) Pluma

Pen

I set up a post variously cut (fashioned).

I set up a post that was cut in different ways.

Pen Page 71

Pen

The pen of this riddle is the old-time quill pen.

The pen of this riddle is the classic quill pen.

Con uyatan naga lacat; con buhi-an naga liguid.

(Bis.) Pluma

(Bis.) Pen

When held it goes; When let loose it lies down.

When you hold it, it moves; when you let it go, it stays still.

Pen

Bolong na unas mancancanioas.

Bolong na unas mancananceas.

(Pang.) Catli

Sugarcane leaves moving crisscross.

Sugarcane leaves moving in a crisscross pattern.

Scissors

Pukeng payat nangangagat.

Skinny dog bites.

(Tag.) Gunteng

A narrow vagina bites.

A tight vagina hurts.

Scissors

Maysa nga colibangbang tinaoentaoen nga mangan.

(Iloc.) Raquem

Raquem

There is a butterfly which is eating every year.

There is a butterfly that eats every year.

Rice knife

Rice cutter

The small knife used to cut rice. Its shape suggests that of a butterfly.

The small knife used for cutting rice has a shape that resembles a butterfly.

Diac maquita nacamolagatac; no abbongac maquitac.

(Iloc.) Anteojos

Glasses

I cannot see although my eyes are Page 72wide open; if I cover, I can see.

I can't see even though my eyes are Page 72 wide open; if I cover them, I can see.

Spectacles

Glasses

Diotay pa si compare cahibalo na mag saca sa lubu.

Diotay pa si compare kahibalo na mag-saka sa lubi.

(Bis.) Subay

(Bis.) Officer

My compadre is tiny, yet he knows how to climb up a cocoanut tree.

My buddy is small, but he knows how to climb a coconut tree.

Ant

Bahay ni Man Tute haligue ay bali-bali.

Bahay ni Man Tute ay sira-sira.

(Tag.) Alimango

(Tag.) Crab

House of Mr. Tute, whose rafters are twisted.

House of Mr. Tute, with twisted rafters.

Crab

Crab.

Nano nga pispis nga ua-ay pag lupad, may pac-pac cag may bala-hibu, cag naga butu.

(Bis.) Ulang

(Bis.) Repeat

What bird is it, having wings cannot fly, which makes its nest and hatches its young under its wings?

What bird is it that has wings but can't fly, and makes its nest and hatches its young under its wings?

Crayfish

Crawfish

No umolog maturog; no umoli tomacqui.

(Iloc.—also Pang.) Alinta

Alinta

When it goes down, it sleeps; when Page 73it goes up it drops waste matter.

When it goes down, it sleeps; when Page 73 it goes up, it releases waste.

Earthworm

Magmagna mamingpingqui.

(Iloc.) Colalanti

Colalanti

Walking, it strikes fire. Makes a spark.

Walking ignites passion. Creates a spark.

Fireflies

Glowworms

Con sa latagon palanacal; con sa balay magansal; pero con sa mesa in a ugdang.

(Bis.) Lango

Out in the field she talks too much; In the house she makes much noise; But when at table she is quiet.

Out in the field, she talks a lot; in the house, she makes a lot of noise; but when at the table, she is quiet.

Fly

Ang patay nag bata sing buhi, ang buhi nag bata cag ang iya bata iya guin bilin sa patay, cag ang patay amo ang nag buhi sang bata sang buhi.

(Bis.) Langao, uhid, carne

(Bis.) Langao, uhid, meat

A living thing left its young to a dead thing; this dead thing gave nourishment to the young of the living thing.

A living creature left its offspring with a lifeless one; this lifeless being provided sustenance to the young of the living creature.

Fly, maggots, meat

Siasino iti parsua ni apotayo nga Dios nga casla agropropa a caballo Page 74quet iti payacna casla bulong iti caoayan?

(Iloc.) Dudon

Dudon

What creature of our Lord God has a face like a horse and wings like bambu leaves?

What creature of our Lord God has a face like a horse and wings like bamboo leaves?

Grasshopper

Adda maysa nga tumatayal yanna amin nga lugar uray no tayac quen cabaquiran, quet iti rupana rupa iti baca, iti tengnguedna tengngued iti caballo, iti barocongna barocong iti tao, iti payacna casla bolong iti caoayan iti ipusna casla uleg, iti sacana casla saca iti tocling.

(Iloc.) Oasay-oasay

(Oasay-oasay)

There is a flying thing, which stays anywhere,—even in the forest and tayac; its face is the face of a cow, its neck the neck of a horse, the breast the breast of a man, the wing is like the leaf of a bambu, his tail resembles a snake, and his feet look like the feet of a bird.

There is a flying creature that can be found anywhere—even in the forest and the underbrush; its face looks like a cow’s, its neck like a horse’s, its chest like a man’s, its wings are similar to bamboo leaves, its tail resembles a snake, and its feet look like a bird’s.

Grasshopper Page 75

Grasshopper

Madilim na bundoc hayop na walan buto.

Madilim na bundok, hayop na walang buto.

(Tag.) Cutu

Dark mountain—boneless animal.

Dark mountain—meatless creature.

Louse

Lice

Atimon sa cagulangan ua-ay alipopo-an.

(Bis.) Lusa

Melon of the wilderness without a stem.

Melon from the wild without a stem.

Nit

Ating metung a cacanan ing queang pengan marayu ya qung atian.

(Pamp.) Paro

There is a certain thing to eat; its fleshiness is far from its belly.

There’s something to eat; its meat is nowhere near its stomach.

Shrimp

Ing labuad nang quebaitan yang ena na buring balicad, uling ing hie na carin mipalamang.

(Pamp.) Yamuc

He does not like to return to the land where he was born for there he will meet his fate.

He doesn't want to go back to the place where he was born because that's where he'll face his destiny.

Mosquito

Born of water; he drowns in water. Page 76

Aling hayop dito sa mundo, ang inilalakad ay ulo?

Aling hayop sa mundo ang naglalakad gamit ang ulo?

(Tag.) Suso

What animal in this world walks with his head?

What animal in this world walks on its head?

Snail

Maysa a naparato ti catayna pagsilona.

(Iloc.) Laoalaoa

Laoalaoa

A joker uses his spittle for a snare.

A joker uses his saliva as a trap.

Spider

Ating palacio mitmu yang cuartu, balang metung a cuartu maqui metung yang curatu.

Ating palace, we have a room; it's just one room in a large place.

(Pamp.) Calaba ning tainumu, o panilan.

There is a palace full of rooms, each containing a priest.

There’s a palace with many rooms, and each one has a priest in it.

Honeycomb

Aroi Dom Pedro, hindi macolabas sa carcel?

Aroi Dom Pedro, aren’t you going to get out of jail?

(Tag.) Tinik

Oh! Don Pedro, why don't you get out of prison?

Oh! Don Pedro, why don't you just get out of jail?

Sting

Tinik means either a sting of an insect or the thorn of a plant. It is the sting or thorn which here is considered in prison and exhorted to escape. Page 77

Tinik refers to either an insect sting or a plant thorn. It's the sting or thorn that is viewed here in prison and encouraged to break free. Page 77

Metung a butil a pale kitmu ne ing bale.

(Pamp.) Sumbu

A single grain of rice, filled the whole house.

A single grain of rice filled the entire house.

A lamp

A light fixture

Memala ya ing labak meto ya ing tugak.

(Pamp.) Sumbu

The swamp dried up and the frog died.

The swamp dried up, and the frog died.

An oil lamp

A lamp

Adda lognac quen adda met agtaytayab daytoy nga agtaytayab aggiyan ditoy nga lognac quet no mamamagaan daytoy nga lognaquen matay met datoy agtaytayaben.

(Iloc.) Lamparaan

Lamparaan

There is a pond and a bird; this bird lives in the pond. When the pond dries up, the bird dies.

There’s a pond and a bird; this bird lives in the pond. When the pond dries up, the bird dies.

Lamp

Light fixture

Aniat casam itan ti nasamit?

Is Aniat home this evening?

(Iloc.) Ayat

Love

What is the sweetest of the sweet?

What is the sweetest of all sweets?

Love Page 78

Love

Ania ti ayat nga agmalmalem?

Is love the answer?

(Iloc.) Ti apagcascasar

Ti apagcascasar

What love lasts all day?

Of those just married

Of those recently married

Ramaycot panagaladco luac ti panagsibugco.

(Iloc.) Panangasaoa

I fence with my fingers; I water with my tears.

I fight with my fingers; I nourish with my tears.

To marry

Get married

Nag molaac iti masetas ditoy locong iti dacolapco iti pinag si bogco toy loac quet iti pinamorosco toy matac.

(Iloc.) Nagayanayat

Nagayanayat

I planted a plant in the midst of the palm of my hand, I watered it with my tears, I gathered it with my eyes.

I planted a seed in the palm of my hand, I watered it with my tears, and I nurtured it with my eyes.

Loving each other

Loving one another

Acoi nag tanim nang dayap sa gitna nang dagat marami ang nahanap, iisa ang naka palad.

Acoi nag tanim ng dayap sa gitna ng dagat, marami ang nahanap, iisa ang nakapala.

(Tag.,—also Iloc.) Dalaga

(Tag.,—also Iloc.) Young woman

I planted a lemon tree in the middle of the sea many sought it only one found it.

I planted a lemon tree in the middle of the sea; many looked for it, but only one person found it.

Girl Page 79

Girl

Oalay saquey ya dalayap temmobod puegley na dayat amayamay ya manped peraod sac sacquey so acagaoat.

(Pang.) Panangasasa

(Pang.) Pancakes

There is a lemon-tree growing in the middle of the sea; many people desire to take it, but cannot; only one person can succeed.

There’s a lemon tree growing in the middle of the sea; many people want to take it, but they can’t; only one person can succeed.

Your sister

Your sis

To be married.

Get married.

Mig quera cu babo ebus, lalam sasa cu me tudtud.

(Pamp.) Dase

I lay down upon the buri, under the nipa I slept.

I lay down on the mat, and I slept under the palm roof.

Petate

Mat

The sleeping mat is laid down upon the floor (of buri); the roof is of nipa.

The sleeping mat is placed on the floor (of buri); the roof is made of nipa.

Sa gabey dagat sa arao ay bumbong.

Sa gabey dagat sa araw ay bumbong.

(Tag.) Baneg

At night it is a sea, in the day it is the bambu carry-tube.

At night, it’s a sea; during the day, it’s the bamboo carry-tube.

Petate

Mat

The petate is the sleeping mat of rushes; in the day-time it is rolled up and set away; at night it is unrolled and spread Page 80upon the floor. The word sea is often used for any extended or flat surface.

The petate is a sleeping mat made of rushes; during the day, it's rolled up and stored away; at night, it's unrolled and spread out Page 80 on the floor. The term "sea" is often used to refer to any wide or flat surface.

No aldao tubong no rabii dadali.

(Iloc.) Icamen

Icamen

If day a tube; if night a flounder.

If it's daytime, a tube; if it's nighttime, a flounder.

Sleeping mat=petate

Sleeping mat = sleeping mat

Quitquitaec quet quitaennac; no cataoaac cataoaan nac.

(Iloc.) Espejo

Mirror

I am looking at it, and it looks at me; if I laugh, it laughs.

I’m looking at it, and it’s looking back at me; if I laugh, it laughs too.

Mirror

Guerret nga agpucpuc-cao, agpucpuc-cao a guerret.

(Iloc.) Tambor

Drum

Guerret crying, crying guerret.

Drum

Drum set

Guerret is a section cut transversely from a fish. It has somewhat the shape of a drum.

Guerret is a cross-section slice from a fish. It has a shape that somewhat resembles a drum.

Ania ti pinarsua ni Apo Dios nga iti ngioat na adda ti tian-na maymaysa taequiag na, quen ti ramay na adda ti bocot ti dacolapna, quen naquinruar ti baguisna.

(Iloc.) Guitarra Page 81

Guitar

There is a creature made by Lord God whose mouth is in his belly; he has one arm and his fingers are in his back; and his intestines are outside.

There is a creature created by Lord God whose mouth is in its belly; it has one arm and its fingers are on its back; and its intestines are outside.

Guitar

Secal que batal legari que atian, ginulisac yang masican.

(Pamp.) Dibil

I choked him, I sawed him across the belly, he screamed furiously.

I choked him, I cut him open, and he screamed in anger.

Violin

Bibingca nang hari, hindi mo mahati.

Bibingca ng hari, hindi mo mahati.

(Tag.) Tubig

(Tag.) Water

The king's cake, you cannot divide it.

The king's cake, you can't split it.

Water

No tinagbat, nagpiglat.

No comment, just shocked.

(Iloc.) Danom

Danom

If you chop it, it heals at once.

If you cut it, it heals instantly.

Water

Ing inda maging anak ya, ing anak maging inda ya.

(Pamp.) Yelo

(Yelo)

The mother becomes the daughter and the daughter becomes the mother.

The mother becomes the daughter, and the daughter becomes the mother.

Water, ice Page 82

Water, ice

Siac nacaquitaac iti siam abilit quet pinaltogac iti lima mano iti natedda?

(Iloc.) Lima

Five

I saw nine birds; I shot five of them; how many were left?

Five

The dead ones: the rest flew away.

The dead ones: the others flew away.

Ang madamu guina dugangan, pero ang diotay guina buhinan.

Ang madamu ginadugangan, pero ang gamay ginabuhinan.

(Bis.) Ang pag limas sang tubi sa sulod sang sacayan.

(Bis.) The collection of water inside the container.

The greater is increased, the smaller is diminished.

The greater increases, the smaller decreases.

When water is pumped out of a boat.

Ang iya olo sapat, ang iya lanao cahoy cag ang iya icog tauo.

Ang iya ulo ay bilog, ang kanyang katawan ay kahoy at ang kanyang ilong ay tao.

(Bis.) Carabao arado cog tauo.

(Bis.) Carabao plowing the field.

His head is an animal, his body is wood and his tail is man.

His head is like an animal, his body is made of wood, and his tail is human.

Plowing

Farming

Adda tallo nga caquita; dadiay immona magmagna nga aoan tagarina; Page 83dadiay maicadua mangmangan quet; dadiay maicatlo magmagna nga tomanagari.

(Iloc.) Agarado

Giant

There are three things; the first is walking without talking; the second is eating; the third is walking and talking.

There are three things: the first is walking without talking; the second is eating; the third is walking and talking.

Plowing

Farming

The carabao, the plow, and the man.

Manoc cong pute, nag talon sa pusale.

Manoc with a putt, jumped into the pool.

(Tag.) Hugas bigas

Wash rice

My white chicken jumped into the puddle.

Rice-washing

Rinsing rice

The water that runs from rice washing is white; it falls from the kitchen down into the accumulated water under the house.

The water that drains from washing rice is white; it flows from the kitchen down into the water collected beneath the house.

Ania ti aramid ti babay a dina malpas?

Ania ti aramid ti babae a dina malpas?

(Iloc.) Abel

Abel

What woman's work is never finished?

What woman's work is ever done?

Weaving

There is always a lower edge which cannot be woven. Page 84

There is always a lower edge that cannot be woven. Page 84

Acoi nag tanem nang sile sa tabe nang catre, ang idinileg coi, puro ang ibinungay diamante.

(Tag.) Bata

I planted a pepper near a bed, I watered it with honor, it yielded a precious jewel.

I planted a pepper by a flower bed, I watered it with care, and it produced a valuable gem.

Baby

Con mag atubang si tatay; apang con mag talicud si nanay.

(Bis.) Insik

(Bis.) Insight

If it faces you it is your father; but if it turns its back it is your mother.

If it faces you, it's your father; but if it turns away, it's your mother.

Chinaman

Chinese person

Seen from before the general appearance is that of a man; from behind, a woman.

Seen from the front, it looks like a man; from the back, it looks like a woman.

Taung inucul dang loco, dapot ing dapat na mibulalag quing yatu.

(Pamp.) Cristobal Colon

Cristopher Columbus

One whom they thought a fool, his work beeame world-known.

One person they considered a fool became famous worldwide for his work.

Columbus

Nag habla ang may sala nag tago ang justicia.

Nag-uusap ang may sala, nagtatago ang hustisya.

(Tag.) Nagevemupisal Page 85

The culprit appears in court, the justice is hidden.

The culprit shows up in court, but justice is nowhere to be found.

The Confessional

The Confession Room

The person confessing is plainly seen; the priest receiving the confession is out of sight.

The person confessing is clearly visible; the priest receiving the confession is hidden from view.

Nagmolaac iti pipino idiay arisadsad ti convento dimet nagbunga ti pipino no di Sto. Cristo.

(Iloc.) Natay

Natay

I planted a pip near the convent but it did not produce a squash but Sto. Cristo.

I planted a seed near the convent, but instead of a squash, it grew into a Sto. Cristo.

A dead person

A deceased person

Ania ti ringgor nga saan nga agtaud ti dila?

Ania ti ringgor nga hindi nagmumula sa dila?

(Iloc.) Umel

Umel

What quarrel is not made with the tongue?

What argument isn't started with words?

A dumb man's

A foolish person's

Sin-o ang napatay nga guin lubung sa tiyan sang iya nanay?

(Bis.) Pari

Who died, who was buried in his mother's bosom?

Who died, who was buried in his mother's arms?

Friar

Priest

He was buried in the church.

Duro co nga dalagan pero ua-ay aco dinalaganan?

Duro ko nga dalagan pero wala ako nadal-an?

(Bis.) Naga sacay sa duyan Page 86

(Bis.) Naga sit in the cradle Page 86

Who was running fast but did not move from where he started?

Who was running fast but stayed in the same spot?

One in a hammock

One in a hammock.

Ing makalub makalual ya, ing makalual makalub ya.

(Pamp.) Ing inda ampo ing anak.

What was exposed is inside, what was inside is exposed.

What was hidden is revealed, and what was revealed is now known.

Mother and babe, when the latter is baptized.

Mother and baby, when the baby is baptized.

The mother stays at home in the house.

The mom stays home in the house.

Pinonggosco a pinongos bino caycayan iti Dios.

(Iloc.) Masicog

Masicog

I grasped and grasped and God loosed it.

I held on tight, and God let it go.

Pregnant woman

Pregnant person

Ania ti anac a mangisquis quen mana.

(Iloc.) Ti mangrarit ti piracna.

The fish catches the bait.

What child shaves his mother?

What kid shaves his mom?

Who spends her money

Who spends her cash

Aniat baybay a di aglippias?

(Iloc.) Ti Quinaquirmet

Ti Quinaquirmet

What sea does not overflow?

What sea doesn’t overflow?

The stingy man Page 87

The greedy man Page 87

Though he has abundance he gives out none.

Though he has plenty, he shares none.

Con tulcon nimo uala sia pag pahuay sang lacat apang uala man sing limacatan.

(Bis.) Manoghabol

She appears to be always walking, but after all is still in her place as before.

She seems to be constantly moving, but she's still exactly where she was before.

A weaver

A textile artist

Deli queenteng kaballero rianu mang tiknang an nang palacio, agad yanag malaso.

(Pamp.) Balite

Balite tree

A gallant horseman causes any castle in which he is to crumble to pieces.

A brave horseman can make any castle he’s in fall apart.

The Balite

The Balite Tree

This is the great parasitic fig, which encloses other trees in its embrace.

This is the amazing parasitic fig that wraps around other trees in its embrace.

Adda maysa nga cayo nga bulong nga bulong di met agsabong; sanga nga sanga dimet agbunga.

Adda maysa na puno ng kahoy na hindi namumulaklak; sanga na hindi rin namumunga.

(Iloc.) Caoayan

Caoayan

There is a plant that produces leaves after leaves, but no flowers; branches after branches, but no fruit.

There’s a plant that keeps growing leaves, but no flowers; it keeps sprouting branches, but no fruit.

Bambu Page 88

Bamboo

Siroc iti balay ti bacnang di macaycayan.

Siroc in the mansion of the wealthy can't be contained.

(Iloc.) Bulong ti caoayan

Bulong ti caoayan

Under the bacnang's house it cannot be clean.

Under the bacnang's house, it can’t be clean.

Bambu leaves

Bamboo leaves

Nab-barnasi sin accab-bing-nga udde sicuana.

(Gad.,—also Iloc., Pang., Bis.) Ufud.

When newly-born, well dressed, but when he gets old he is naked.

When he’s born, he’s dressed nicely, but as he gets older, he ends up naked.

Bambu shoot

Bamboo shoot

The bud is covered with a down, which disappears.

The bud is covered in fuzz, which eventually disappears.

Nang munte ay may tapis, nang lumaki ay bulisles.

(Tag.) Caoayan

When young she wore a tapis; when grown she is unclad

When she was young, she wore a dress; now that she's grown, she's naked.

Bambu shoot

Bamboo shoot

The tapis is the most characteristic part of the woman's dress. It is a wide band of dark cloth (black or brown) worn over the other clothing, around the whole middle part of the body. Page 89

The tapis is the most distinctive feature of a woman's outfit. It’s a broad strip of dark fabric (either black or brown) worn over the rest of the clothes, wrapped around the entire waist area. Page 89

Nanganak ang virgen itinapon ang lampen.

(Tag.) Sagueng

The virgin gave birth to a child and threw away the blanket.

The virgin gave birth to a child and discarded the blanket.

Banana

Nanganak ang asuang sa tuktok nagdaan.

(Tag.) Sagueng

An asuang gave birth to a child from the top.

An asuang gave birth to a child from above.

Banana

Naguit-log ni cannaoay inocopan ni teg-gaac idi cuan guiaoen ni oac ti nagtaraquen.

(Iloc.) Saba

Saba

A stork laid an egg; the crane hatched a lark from it; the crow took care of the young.

A stork laid an egg; the crane hatched a lark from it; the crow raised the young one.

Banana

Sancadaoa sangalabba.

(Iloc.) Sangcabulig a saba

(Supportive friend)

A seed-bearing stem; one fills a basket.

A stem with seeds; one fills a basket.

Bunch of bananas

Macagto sa simbahan si Mary, pito o ualo ang iya saya.

Macagto sa simbahan si Mary, pito o ualo ang kanyang damit.

(Tag.) Puso

(Tag.) Heart

Mary is going to church having seven or eight shirts.

Mary is going to church with seven or eight shirts.

Banana bud Page 90

Banana flower

The bud is wrapped or folded within a number of bracts.

The bud is enclosed or folded within several bracts.

Adda puso a maysa dagat nag apuanna alupasit naglasatanna.

(Iloc.) Puso ti saba

Heart of the banana

There is a heart that came from the earth and pushed up through alupasit.

There is a heart that emerged from the ground and pushed up through alupasit.

The heart of the banana

The core of the banana

Alupasit is banana fibre.

Alupasit is banana fiber.

Caballo moreno umosoc idiay ngato.

(Iloc.) Sabonganay ti saba

Saba festival

The red horse comes out upward.

The red horse stands up.

Banana flowers

Banana blossom

Isda co sa Sapa-sapa sapin-sapin ang taba.

Isda sa Sapa-sapa, sapin-sapin ang taba.

(Tag.) Saha nang saguing

(Tag.) Sapaan yang ringan

My fish in Sapa-sapa has manifold layers of fat.

My fish in Sapa-sapa has multiple layers of fat.

Stem of banana

Banana stem

The stem of a banana cut through shows in wrapping layers, not unlike fat.

The stem of a cut banana reveals layers that wrap around, similar to fat.

Dasug ca kaka, libutad ya y inda.

(Pamp.) Saging ampo ding sui na

Move on my brother, let mother be in the middle.

Move on, brother, let mom be in the middle.

A banana plant and its suckers Page 91

A banana plant and its shoots Page 91

The new ones displace the older ones, pushing them outward.

The new ones push the older ones outwards.

Ang puno lubi; ang dahon espada; ang bunga bala.

(Bis.) Cahoy ngaburi

(Bis.) Cahoy angkat daun

The trunk cocoanut; the leaves swords; the fruit bullets.

The trunk of the coconut tree is like a sturdy pole; the leaves are sharp like swords; the fruit looks like bullets.

Buri palm

Buri palm tree

Angibitinac na liquen tangtanga yey mamasiquen.

(Pang.) Camantilis

I was hung by a potring; the old men looked up at me.

I was hung by a potring; the old guys looked up at me.

Camachili

The pendent fruit suggests the riddle.

The hanging fruit hints at the puzzle.

Nano nga sapat nga ang iya palod hayang pero ang iya tudlo culub?

(Bis.) Packing sang lubi

Packing sang coconut

What animal is it which has its palm upside up but its fingers upside down?

What animal has its palm facing up but its fingers facing down?

Cocoanut leaves

Coconut leaves

Payung y Santa Maria amena mabata.

(Gad.) Tafal

Tafal

Saint Mary's umbrella cannot be wetted.

Saint Mary's umbrella can't get wet.

Gabi Page 92

This is the cultivated plant commonly known as taro. Its great leaf sheds water perfectly.

This is the cultivated plant commonly known as taro. Its large leaves shed water perfectly.

No malipatam maca-alaca; quet no malaguipmo dica maca-ala.

(Iloc.) Poriquet=amorsico

Poriquet=amorsico

If you do not remember, you get; but if you do remember, you do not get.

If you don’t remember, you get it; but if you do remember, you don’t get it.

Grass-burs

Grass burrs

Agsabong dina met bonga agsanga isut bongana.

Agsabong din na naman, bonga agsanga isut bongana.

(Iloc.) Mais

Corn

It produces a flower but it is not its fruit; it produces branches which are its fruit.

It produces a flower, but that's not its fruit; it produces branches that are its fruit.

Maize

Corn

Nag tapis nang nag tapis nacalitao ang bulbolis.

(Tag.) Mais

(Tag.) But

She wore and wore her tapis yet her pubic hair was displayed.

She kept wearing her tapis, but her pubic hair was still visible.

Maize

Corn

The green husks are considered the tapis, or wrap about the mid-body; the silk appearing from the husk wrapping is the pubic hair. Page 93

The green husks are seen as the tapis, or the wrap around the middle; the silk that comes from the husk is like pubic hair. Page 93

Alo-divino de gracia malayo ang bulaklak sa bunga.

(Tag.) Mais

(Tag.) But

Of all divine gifts it is the only plant whose flower is far from the fruit.

Of all the divine gifts, it’s the only plant whose flower is quite separate from the fruit.

Maize

Corn

Tite nang Ingles, puno nang gales.

(Tag.) Mais

(Tag.) But

The Englishman's ——— is full of pustules.

The Englishman’s ——— is full of pimples.

Maize; ear

Corn; ear

Siasino iti pinarsua ni Apo Dios nga umuna nga matay santo agbonga?

Sino ang unang nilikha ng Diyos na namatay na santo?

(Iloc.—also Pang.) Sarguelas

Sarguelas

What thing our Lord God made dies first and then fruits?

What thing our Lord God created dies first and then produces fruit?

Plum tree

Uala sa langit, uala sa lupa, ang dahon ay sariwa?

Uala sa langit, uala sa lupa, are the leaves fresh?

(Tag.) Quiapo

Quiapo

It is not in heaven, it is not on earth, its leaves are fresh.

It’s not in heaven, it’s not on earth, its leaves are green.

Quiapo

The water-lettuce; it covers the surface of quiet spots in rivers. Page 94

The water-lettuce covers the surface of calm areas in rivers. Page 94

Cung hindi lamang si tagabundok si tagalati ay mahuhulog.

Cung hindi lamang ang taga-bundok ang tatama kundi pati na rin ang taga-lati ay mahuhulog.

(Tag.) Iyantok at parvid

(Tag.) Catch you later

But for the one living in the mountain the one living in the swamp would fall.

But for the person living in the mountain, the one living in the swamp would fail.

Nipa and rattan

The rattan (growing in the mountain) is used to lash on the nipa (growing in the swamp) to the house framework.

The rattan (growing on the mountain) is used to tie the nipa (growing in the swamp) to the house structure.

No colditenca matayea quet no adayoanca mabiagea.

(Iloc.) Bainbain

Bainbain

If I touch you you will die; but if I get away from you you will live.

If I touch you, you'll die; but if I stay away from you, you'll live.

Sensitive plant

Mimosa plant

Adda maysa a cayo idiay toctoc adda bobonco.

Adda maysa na kahoy diyan sa toctoc may bobonco.

(Iloc.) Silag

Silag

There is a tree up there and I have a well on it.

There’s a tree up there, and I have a well by it.

Silag

A sort of palm, the bud is cut out and a sweet sap secured.

A type of palm tree, the bud is cut off and a sweet sap is collected.

Tagbatec ta sacam: inomec ta daram.

(Iloc.) Unas

Unas

I chop your feet; I drink your blood.

I cut off your feet; I drink your blood.

Sugarcane Page 95

Sugarcane

Lalabas cu, tindus dacn.

(Pamp.) Sulput

Sulput

I was going out into the field, they pierced me.

I was heading out into the field when they attacked me.

A grass with slender and sharp seeds.

A grass with thin and sharp seeds.

Pinagsakitan kong aking matuklasan ang bagay na isang ninais makamtan at nang sa pagkita ay hindi mapalaran tinaglay-taglay ko hangang kamatayan.

Pinagsikapan kong malaman ang bagay na matagal kong hinahangad, at nang makuha ko ito, kahit na hindi ako pinalad, dala-dala ko ito hanggang sa aking kamatayan.

(Tag.) Tinik

I sought a thing I wished to get, and as I could not find it I kept it until my death.

I wanted something I could never find, so I held onto it until I died.

Spine

Adda tal-lo a Princesas sag-gaysa ti coartoda ngem saan da nga agquiquita.

(Iloc.) Tagunbao

Tagunbao

There are three princesses; each has a separate room and they cannot see each other.

There are three princesses; each has her own room, and they can’t see each other.

Tagunboa

A shrub used for hedges, with a tripartite pod or capsule.

A plant used for hedges that has a three-part pod or capsule.

Ania iti mula a uray bolding mailasinna?

(Iloc.) Siit Page 96

Siit Page 96

What thing is blind but can select?

What is blind but can choose?

Thorn

Aniat cala-adan ti bomaro atao?

(Iloc.) Ti quinasuquer

Ti quinasuquer

What is the worst disfigurement for a young man?

What is the worst kind of disfigurement for a young man?

Disobedience

Defiance

Ano ang itatawag mo sa biyenang babayi nang asawa nang kapatid mo?

Ano ang itatawag mo sa biyenang babae ng asawa ng kapatid mo?

(Tag.) Ina

What will you call the mother-in-law of your sister's husband?

What do you call your sister's husband's mother-in-law?

Mother

Mom

Ang amain kong buo ay may isang kapatid na babayi, ngunit siyai hindi ko naman ali. Sino siya?

Ang amain kong buo ay may isang kapatid na babae, ngunit hindi ko siya kilala. Sino siya?

(Tag.) Aking ina

(Tag.) My mom

My uncle has a sister but she is not my aunt. Who is she?

My uncle has a sister, but she's not my aunt. Who is she?

My mother

Mom

Ang mga babaying A at B ay nakasalubong sa daan ng dalawang lalaki; at nagwika si A; naito na ang ating mga ama, mga Page 97ama nang ating mga anak; at mga tunay nating.

Ang mga babaying A at B ay nakasalubong sa daan ng dalawang lalaki; at nagsabi si A; heto na ang ating mga ama, mga Page 97ama ng ating mga anak; at mga tunay natin.

(Tag.) Ang ama ni A ay napakasal kay B at ang ama ni B ay napakasal kay A at nagkaroon sila nang tigisang anak.

(Tag.) Ang ama ni A ay nag-asawa kay B at ang ama ni B ay nag-asawa kay A at nagkaroon sila ng tig-isang anak.

Ladies A and B met two men and said, “There come our fathers, fathers of our sons and our own husbands.”

Ladies A and B met two men and said, “Here come our fathers, the fathers of our sons and our husbands.”

A's father married with B and B's father with A, and each of them had a child.

A's dad married B, and B's dad married A, and each of them had a kid.

Nang malapos nang madalao nang isang lalaki ang isang bilango ay tinanong nang bantay; ano mo ba ang tawong iyon? Kapatid mo ba o ano? Ang sagot nang bilango ay ito; akoy ualang kapatid, ni pamangkin ni amain, ni nuno, ni apo, ni kahit kaibigan; ngungit ang ama nang tawong iyan, ay anak nang anak nang aking ama. Ano nang bilango ang tawong iyon.

Nang dumating ang isang lalaki na may dalang bilanggo, tinanong ng bantay; "Sino ba ang taong iyon? Kapatid mo ba o ano?" Sumagot ang bilanggo; "Wala akong kapatid, ni pamangkin, ni amain, ni ninuno, ni apo, ni kahit kaibigan; pero ang ama ng taong iyon ay anak ng aking ama. Ano ng bilanggo ang taong iyon?"

(Tag.) Anak

(Tag.) Child

After a man visited a prisoner, Page 98the guard asked him—“is that man your brother, or what?” The prisoner's answer was, “I have no brother, no uncle, no nephew, no grandfather, neither grandson nor friend; but that man's father is my father's son. “Who was that man?

After a man visited a prisoner, Page 98the guard asked him, “Is that man your brother or what?” The prisoner replied, “I have no brother, no uncle, no nephew, no grandfather, no grandson, and no friend; but that man’s father is my father’s son.” “Who was that man?”

Son

Kid

Oalayan pinalsay Dios ya amayamay iran sanaagui et sacsaquey so pait da.

(Pang.—also Bis.) Colintas

Many of them, brothers—but they have only one bodytube.

Many of them, brothers—but they have only one body tube.

Beads

Adda tal-lo gasut a bacac maymaysat nanglidingac.

(Iloc.) Cuentas

Accounts

I have three hundred cattle, with a single nose cord.

I have three hundred cattle, all tied with a single nose cord.

Beads

Nacno agapaldua.

(Pang.) Simbaan

(Pang.) Church

Only half full.

Half full.

Church

Napuno pero ua-ay mag tunga.

Napuno pero walang pagsasama.

(Bis.) Simbahan

(Bis.) Church

They said it was full but it was half-full.

They said it was full, but it was only half-full.

Church Page 99

Church

Idi nagcasar ni Ina quen ni Ama avanac pay a dara ngem idi nagbuniag ni Apo siac ti namadrino.

(Iloc.) Cristo

Christ

When my father and mother were married I was not yet in the womb, but when my grandfather was baptized I was his godfather.

When my parents got married, I wasn't even conceived yet, but when my grandfather was baptized, I was his godfather.

Christ

Jesus

Dua ti taquiagna, maysat sacana, adda olo aoan matana.

(Iloc.) Cruz

Cruz

Two arms, one leg and a head, but no eyes.

Two arms, one leg, and a head, but no eyes.

Cross

Crossroads

Tatlo ang botones, apat ang ohales.

Tatlo ang buttons, apat ang holes.

(Tag.,—also Bis.) Cristo

Three buttons, four holes.

Crucifix

Cross

May isang batang lalaque, umakyat sa camachile nang hindi ma ca puede, likod ang idinale.

May isang batang lalaque, umakyat sa camachile nang hindi maabot, likod ang idinila.

(Tag.) Si Cristo

(Tag.) If Christ

There is a boy climbed up a camachili tree; when he could not stand it he climbed on his back.

There is a boy who climbed up a camachili tree; when he couldn't take it anymore, he climbed down onto his back.

Crucifix Page 100

Crucifix

Maysa a cayo nagango idiay poona nabasa idiay tingana, nagango met ti ngodona.

(Iloc.) Sto Cristo

A tree dry at the foot, wet in the middle, dry also above.

A tree that’s dry at the base, wet in the middle, and dry again at the top.

Christ, i.e, crucifix

Christ, i.e., cross

Aramid ti masirib canen ti nalaing. amin a macaquita pasig amin a logpi.

(Iloc.) Ostia

Ostia

Work of a wise man, eaten by a wise man; all who see are lame.

Work of a wise person, consumed by a wise person; everyone who sees is crippled.

The host

Akoi nag tanim nang sicolo sa gitna nang convento, ibinunga ay si Cristo.

Akoi nang tanim ng sigarilyo sa gitna ng kumbento, naging bunga ay si Cristo.

(Tag.) Hostia

I planted a sicolo in the midst of the convent; it bore Christ for fruit.

I planted a sicolo in the middle of the convent; it produced Christ as its fruit.

The host

The host person

A sicolo is a small piece of money; it here relates to the contribution made at communion service.

A sicolo is a small amount of money; it here refers to the contribution made during the communion service.

Isang tubong sinanduyon, abut sa langit ang dahon.

(Tag.) Panalangin Page 101

(Tag.) Prayer Page 101

A sugarcane without joints, whose leaves reach heaven.

A jointless sugarcane with leaves that stretch to the sky.

Prayer

Nang maitayo na yaong hangang baywang nagbitiu ng pawang kalunkut lunkutan.

Nang maitayo na ang hangang baywang, nagbitaw ng pawang kalungkutan.

(Tag.) Ang pitong wikang iniaaral nang pari sa Viernes Santo.

(Tag.) The seven languages the priest studies on Good Friday.

After he hid from his feet to his waist he gave very sad things.

After he hid from his feet to his waist, he revealed some very sad things.

The preaching in the pulpit by a priest about the seven utterances of Christ on Good Friday.

The priest's sermon in the pulpit about the seven last words of Christ on Good Friday.

Aquinngatot cadsaaran, aquinbabat bobengan.

(Iloc.) Polpito

Polpito

The floor is higher, the roof lower.

The floor is higher, the ceiling is lower.

Pulpit

Podium

i.e. than that of the building in which it stands.

i.e. than the building it's in.

Sag magkakapatid na pitong sin liyag ako ang naunang nagkitang liwanag. At ako rin naman yaong nagkapalad na tawaging bunso sa kanilang lahat.

(Tag.) Ang pitong linggo nang Cuaresma. Page 102

(Tag.) The seven weeks of Lent. Page 102

Seven brothers are we; the firstborn was I but I am the youngest of all.

Seven brothers are we; I was the firstborn, but now I'm the youngest of all.

The seven weeks of Quaresma.

The seven weeks of Lent.

Asin ti yanti espiritu iti bagui?

(Iloc.) Aquincatiquid nga abaga.

Aquincatiquid nga abaga.

Where is the spirit in the body?

In the left shoulder

On the left shoulder

In making the sign of the cross the word spirit comes when the left shoulder is pointed to.

In making the sign of the cross, the word "spirit" is said when you point to the left shoulder.

Adda pitu a botonisco; maymaysat pinat pategco.

(Iloc.) Domingo

Sunday

I have seven buttons; I like one best.

I have seven buttons, and I like one the most.

Sunday

Pitu casiglot maymaysat nairut.

(Iloc.) Domingo

Sunday

Seven twined (“twisted”), only one tight.

Seven twisted, only one snug.

Sunday

Contirad contibong; bandera ti lobong.

(Iloc.) Torre

Torre

Sharp and long; flag of the world.

Tower Page 103

Tower

Caoayan bayog ag nayogayog.

Caoayan bayog and nayogayog.

(Pang.) Torre

(Pang.) Tower

Caoayan bayog1 you cannot shake it.

Caoayan bayog1 you can't get rid of it.

Tower

Mayroon akong pitong bunga nang kohol ibinigay co sa iyo ang anim at ang isang natira sa akin ay ibig mo pang kunin.

Mayroon akong pitong bunga ng kohol; ibinigay ko sa iyo ang anim, at ang isang natira sa akin ay gusto mo pang kunin.

(Tag.) Ang pitong arao nang isang linggo.

(Tag.) There are seven days in a week.

I have seven oranges. I gave you six and you want to take the remaining one.

I have seven oranges. I gave you six, and now you want to take the last one.

The seven days of the week

Minagaling pa ang basag cay sa baong ualang lamat.

Minagaling pa ang basag kaysa sa baong walang sira.

(Tag.) Ang sabi sa evangelio ni Cristo ay ganito. Hindi rao sia naparito o nanoag dito sa lupa para sacupin ang mga banal cung di ang macasalanan.

(Tag.) The gospel of Christ says this: He did not come down to earth to save the righteous, but to save sinners.

Better the broken piece than the whole without crack.

Better the broken piece than the whole without a flaw.

In the gospel Christ said that he did not Page 104come upon earth for the righteous but for the sinner.

In the Gospel, Christ said that he did not Page 104come to earth for the righteous but for sinners.

Cung uala cay magbigay ca at cung meroon ay huagna.

(Tag.) Nung ang nga fariseo ay nacahuli nang mangangaluniang babae ay i ni habla cay Cristo, at ang canilang sabi, Hindi po ba maestro na sabi sa ley ni Moises na sino mang mahuli sa pangangalunia ay pupuculin nang bato hangan sa mamatay. Ang isinagot ni Cristo; sino mang ualang sala ay cumuha nang bato at puclin na.

(Tag.) Nung nahuli ang mga Fariseo na may kasamang babae, sinabi nila kay Cristo, "Hindi ba, Guro, na ayon sa batas ni Moises, ang sinumang mahuli sa pangangalunya ay dapat batuhin hanggang mamatay?" Sumagot si Cristo, "Sino man sa inyo ang walang kasalanan, siya ang unang bumato."

Give if you have none; if you have don't give.

Give if you don't have anything; if you do have something, don't give.

When the Pharisees caught a woman in adultery, they took her before Christ. They said, “what sentence do you give to those taken in adultery, since in the law of Moses it is commanded that the woman taken in adultery shall be stoned until she die.” Christ answered, “Let him which is without sin among you cast the first stone.” Page 105

When the Pharisees caught a woman committing adultery, they brought her to Christ. They said, “What do you think should happen to those caught in adultery? According to Moses’ law, the woman caught in adultery should be stoned to death.” Christ replied, “Let the one who is without sin among you throw the first stone.” Page 105

Humiling ang hari sa canyang alagad nang uala sa kanyat di pa natatangap, ang hiningan naman ay dagling nag-gaoad nang sa boong yatu'y di pa natutuklas.

Humiling ang hari sa kanyang alagad nang wala sa kanya at di pa natatanggap, ang hiningan naman ay dagling nag-gaoad nang sa buong yatu'y di pa natutuklas.

(Tag.) Ang pagbibinyag ni San Juan Bautista cay Cristo.

(Tag.) The baptism of San Juan Bautista with Christ.

The King asked from his soldier what he had not, and the soldier gave him what was not in the world.

The King asked his soldier what he didn’t have, and the soldier gave him what didn’t exist in the world.

The Baptism by St. John Baptist of Christ.

The Baptism by St. John the Baptist of Christ.

Nang mabasag ang bote lalong na paka buti.

Nang mabasag ang bote lalo na pakabuti.

(Tag.) Mahal na Virgen

(Tag.) Precious Virgin

The bottle became better when broken.

The bottle became more valuable when it was broken.

The Virgin Mary

Mary Mother of Jesus

“When Mary was yet unmarried and Christ had not yet been born she was not considered very sacred; we say the bottle was not yet broken. When she was married to Joseph and Christ was born she became very sacred; so we say that when the bottle was broken the better it became.” Page 106

“When Mary was still unmarried and Christ had not been born yet, she wasn't seen as very holy; we say the bottle was not broken yet. After she married Joseph and Christ was born, she became very sacred; so we say that when the bottle was broken, it became even better.” Page 106

Nang pitasin ang hinog hilas ang siang nahulog.

Nang pitasin ang hinog, nahulog ang siang.

(Tag.) Noong magpapugot si Herodes nang mga bata dahilan sa gusto niang mapatay si Cristo. Napatay ang meroon 1000 bata data puat si Cristo hinde napatay. Sa macatuid napitas nia ang hilao at ang hinog ay hindi. Si Cristo sapagcat puno nang carunungan ay ipinalagay na hinog at ang mga bata ay hilao sapagcat sila ualapang carunungan.

(Tag.) Noong pinatay ni Herodes ang mga bata dahil gusto niyang ipapatay si Cristo. Namatay ang halos 1000 bata ngunit si Cristo ay hindi napatay. Sa madaling salita, nakuha niya ang hindi hinog at ang hinog ay hindi. Si Cristo, dahil puno ng karunungan, ay itinuturing na hinog, samantalang ang mga bata ay hindi hinog sapagkat sila ay walang karunungan.

When he plucked the ripe, the unripe fell.

When he picked the ripe one, the unripe one dropped.

When King Herod wanted to kill Christ, he ordered to kill all children; he thought that if all the children in his country were killed, Christ could not escape. But he did not know how powerful Christ was. So the children who knew nothing (were unripe) fell and Christ (ripe) because he knows everything escaped.

When King Herod wanted to kill Christ, he ordered the killing of all children; he believed that if all the kids in his country were killed, Christ wouldn't be able to escape. But he didn't realize how powerful Christ was. So the innocent children who knew nothing were lost, while Christ, who is all-knowing, managed to escape.

Ipinalit ang guinto sa bibinga.

Swapped gold for a bibinga.

(Tag.) Page 107Ito i nauucol sa pagsacop ni Cristo sa ating casalanan na hindi cailangan sia mamatay masacop lamang ang ating casalanan na siang catulad ng bibinga at ang caniang pagca Dios na catulad ang guinto.

(Tag.) Page 107 It talks about how Jesus took on our sins, that He didn't have to die just to cover our sins, like a basket, and His divinity is like gold.

Sand is changed to gold.

Sand turns into gold.

This applies to Christ, when he redeemed our sins. He did not value his life but gave it that we might be saved from our sins. His life is gold because he was full of knowledge; he died on account of our sins which are like sand.

This applies to Christ when he saved us from our sins. He didn’t value his life but gave it up so that we could be forgiven. His life is precious like gold because he was full of wisdom; he died for our sins, which are like sand.

Nang munti ay may buntot nang lumakiy napugot.

Nang munti ay may buntot nang lumaki'y napugot.

(Tag.) Palaca

(Tag.) Palace

When he was little he had a tail but when he was grown he had none.

When he was a kid, he had a tail, but when he grew up, he didn’t have one.

Frog

Adda maysa nga ubing nga adda idiay danum ngem di met uminom.

Adda isang bata na naroon sa tubig pero hindi naman umiinom.

(Iloc.) Tocak

Tocak

There is a boy living in the water who does not drink.

There is a boy living in the water who doesn’t drink.

Frog Page 108

Frog

Baston ti bacnang saan mo nga maiganan.

(Iloc.,—also Pang.) Uleg

Uleg

The bacnang's cane, you cannot hold it.

The bacnang's cane, you can't hold it.

Snake

Bacnang, a man of wealth.

Bacnang, a wealthy man.

No nacariing nacamulagat; no nacaturog nacamuldagat.

No giving up; no sleeping on the job.

(Iloc.) Uleg

Uleg

If awake, his eyes wide open; if asleep, his eyes wide open.

If he’s awake, his eyes are wide open; if he’s asleep, his eyes are still wide open.

Snake

Anano nga sapat nga con maglacat, dala nia ang iya balay?

Anano nga sapat nga kon maglakad, dala niya ang iya balay?

(Bis.,—also Pang.) Ba-o

What animal carries his house wherever he goes?

What animal carries its home wherever it goes?

Turtle

Tata a tolay icacangcalinna na balena.

(Gad.) Dagga

(Gad.) Weed

A man who always carries his house along with him.

A man who always has his home with him.

Turtle

Magmagna itugtogotnat balayna.

(Iloc.) Pag-ong

(New) Update

Walking and walking and carrying his own house.

Walking and walking, carrying his own house.

Turtle Page 109

Turtle

Eto na si caca may sunong na dampa.

Eto na si tita may bahay na siya.

(Tag.) Pagong

(Tag.) Turtle

Here comes brother with a house over his head.

Here comes my brother with a roof over his head.

Turtle

Magma nagcal-logong no maibagam pag-ong.

Magma never complains about change.

(Iloc.) Pag-ong

New

Walking, wearing his hat.

Walking, wearing his cap.

Turtle

Tortoise

Bulong ti saba umac-acaba; bulong ti niog umat-atid-dog.

Bark of the banana tree is peeling; bark of the coconut tree is cracking.

(Iloc.) Calzada

Street

Leaf of a banana become wider; leaf of a cocoanut become longer.

Leaf of a banana gets wider; leaf of a coconut gets longer.

Road

Street

Nagmolaac iti carabosa iti santac na macada non idiay Manila.

Nagmolaak ng carabao sa kanyang sagrado na lugar sa Maynila.

(Iloc.) Calzada

(Iloc.) Street

I planted a calabash; its branches can reach to Manila.

I planted a calabash; its branches can reach all the way to Manila.

Road

Also has for answer, telegraph line.

Nan ta ne mac na laver ed Dagupan angad diay lanioto.

(Pang.) Calzada Page 110

I have planted a betel-tree in Dagupan but its roots reach to here.

I planted a betel tree in Dagupan, but its roots stretch all the way here.

Road

No aoan sapolsapolen ngem no adda saan mo met nga alaen.

(Iloc.) Linong

Calm

Tf there is none you are seeking it; if there is some you do not take it.

If there isn’t anyone you’re looking for, you’re searching for them; if there is someone, you don’t accept them.

Shade

Ania ti umona nga aramiden diay vaca no lumgac ti in it?

Ania ti umuna nga aramiden diay vaca no lumgac ti in it?

(Iloc.) Quitaenna diay anninioanna

Quitaenna diay anninioanna

What is the first thing the cow does when the sun rises?

What’s the first thing the cow does when the sun comes up?

Looks at its shadow

No magnaac iti nasipnget aoan caduac quet no magnaac iti nalaoag adda caduac.

(Iloc.) Anninioan

Anniversary

If I walk in the dark I have no companion; if I walk in the light I have one.

If I walk in the dark, I’m alone; if I walk in the light, I have someone with me.

Shadow

Shade

No tilioec tilioennac; no itarayac camatennac.

(Iloc.) Aninioan Page 111

Aninioan Page 111

If I catch, it catches; if I run away it chases me.

If I catch it, it catches; if I run away, it chases me.

Shadow

Shade

Diad ogtoy agueo oalay mapalit con anapuen no na anap co agco alaen.

(Pang.) Serom

At noon I must depart to find; if I can find it, I will not take.

At noon, I have to leave to search; if I can find it, I won't take it.

Shadow

Shade

Milub yang alang liban, linual yang alang liualan.

(Pamp.) Anina tamu a mayayaquit quing salamin.

(Pamp.) Anina ang mga tao na nahuhumaling sa salamin.

He came in through no door and went out through no door.

He entered without a door and left without a door.

Reflection in a mirror

Mirror reflection

San Fernando at Bakulod sabay na nasunog.

San Fernando and Bakulod caught fire at the same time.

(Tag.) Cigarillo

(Tag.) Cigar

San Fernando and Bacolor were burned at the same time.

San Fernando and Bacolor were both set on fire at the same time.

Cigarette

The paper and the tobacco are consumed together. Page 112

The paper and the tobacco are used together. Page 112

Daluang dahon nang pinda-pinda, sing lalapad sing gaganda.

Daluang dahon na parang baluktot, kasing lapad at kasing ganda.

(Tag.) Langit at lupa

Sky and earth

Two leaves of pinda-pinda equal in width and beauty.

Two leaves of pinda-pinda are equal in width and beauty.

Sky and earth

Sky and ground

Quinosicus a barraas; no maib-agam cucuanac.

(Iloc.) Quimat

Quimat

Twisted like a barraas; tell it and I am yours.

Twisted like a barraas; tell me, and I'm yours.

Lightning

The word barraas is local. Perhaps the name of some vine.

The word barraas is local. It might be the name of a certain vine.

Baston ni San Josep indi ma isip.

Baston ni San Josep hindi maisip.

(Bis.) Ulan

Saint Joseph's canes cannot be counted.

Saint Joseph's canes can't be counted.

Rain

Drops of rain in a tropical storm may well suggest rods or staves.

Drops of rain in a tropical storm can definitely resemble sticks or poles.

Buhoc ni Adan, hindi mabilang.

Buhoc ni Adan, countless.

(Tag.) Ulan

Adam's hair cannot be counted.

Adam's hair can't be counted.

Rain Page 113

Rain

Isbu ti guelang-guelang di mabilang.

(Iloc.) Todo

All

Guelang-guelang's piss, you cannot count.

Guelang-guelang's pee, you cannot count.

Rain

Vaca co sa Maynila, hangang ditoi, dinig ang unga.

(Tag.) Culog

My cow in Manila, whose mooing is heard here.

My cow in Manila, whose mooing can be heard here.

Thunder

Thunderstorm

Aniat magna a saan a maquita?

(Iloc.) Angin

Wind

What walks that cannot be seen?

What walks that can't be seen?

Wind

Breeze

Etuna-etuna hindi mo pa naqui-quita.

Etuna-etuna, you still haven't gotten it.

(Tag.) Hangin

(Tag.) Chillin

Here it comes, yet you do not see it.

Here it comes, but you can’t see it.

Wind

Breeze

Picabaluan de ding malda alang maca ibic uaga.

(Pamp.) Angin

He is known everywhere but no one can explain what he is.

He is famous everywhere, but no one can define what he really is.

Wind

Breeze

Tal-lo a pugot natured ti pudut.

(Iloc.) Dalican Page 114

Dalican Page 114

Three ghosts endure much heat.

Three ghosts endure a lot of heat.

Stove

Cooktop

The three supports for the pot are meant. It seems that the pugot (ghost) is black.

The three supports for the pot are intended. It looks like the pugot (ghost) is black.

Tatlong magkakapatid nagtitiis sa init.

Three siblings enduring the heat.

(Tag.) Tungko nang calang

Three brothers suffering from the heat.

Three brothers struggling with the heat.

Pot rests

Pot holders

Tatlong mag kakapitid sing pupute nang dibdib.

Three siblings, all wishing together.

(Tag.) Calan

Three sisters with equally white breasts.

Stove

Cooktop

They are equally white—i.e. they are all three black from the fire.

They are all the same shade of white—meaning they are all three blackened from the fire.

Nagcal-logong nag pica nagcaballo tallot sacana.

(Iloc.) Dalican

Dalican

It has a hat and a spear, a horse and three feet.

Stove

Cooktop

Malaki ang namahay cay sa bahay.

Malaki ang naninirahan sa bahay.

(Tag.) Calang at ang bahay nang Calang.

(Tag.) Calang and the house of Calang.

The inhabitant is larger than the Page 115house.

The resident is bigger than the Page 115house.

Stove and its lower part (called its house.)

Stove and its lower part (called its base.)

Na upo si ca Item, sinulot nica Pula.

(Tag.) Pallot at apoy

(Tag.) Pallot at support

Compadre “Item” (black) sat down, Compadre “Pula” (red) poked him.

Compadre “Item” (black) sat down, and Compadre “Pula” (red) nudged him.

Pot and flame

Pot and fire

Ing caballero cung negro makasake yang attung cabayu dapat kikiak yang anting loco.

(Pamp.) Balanga ampong nasi.

(Balanga) Rice dish.

My black horseman rides three horses but he is crying like a fool.

My black horseman rides three horses, but he's crying like an idiot.

A pot of cooking rice

A pot of rice cooking

The three horses are the firestones or the three supports of the pot in the pottery stove; the bubbling is the crying.

Ania nga aldao ti caatid-dagan?

Which day is the deadline?

(Iloc.) Ti aldao a saan a panangan.

What day is the longest?

Which day is the longest?

The day on which you do not eat Page 116

The day you don't eat Page 116

Nag daan si Cabo negro, namatay na lahat ang tao.

Nagdaan si Cabo Negro, patay na lahat ng tao.

(Tag.) Gabi

The black Corporal passed, all the people died.

The black Corporal passed by, and everyone died.

Night

Nighttime

Died, here, is slept.

Died, here, is resting.

Nung eminuna ing malati, ing maragul emituqui.

Nung eminemuna ing malati, ing maragul emituqui.

(Pamp.) Barrenang espiral

(Barrenang spiral)

If not preceded by the smaller the larger one will not go.

If the smaller one doesn't come first, the bigger one won't move.

Auger

Adda pinarsua iti Dios natanquen ti pammaguina madi a mangan no di matoen ti olona.

(Iloc.) Paet

Carving tool

There is a creature of God whose body is hard; it does not wish to eat unless you strike its head.

There is a creature of God with a tough body; it doesn't want to eat unless you hit its head.

Chisel

Adda babay a labang di mangan no diai paculan.

(Iloc.) Paet

Paet

There is a woman who does not eat unless you strike her.

There’s a woman who won’t eat unless you hit her.

Chisel Page 117

Chisel

Ing damulag cung dapa, quing gulut ya ta tacla.

(Pamp.) Catam

My crawling carabao excretes its feces upward.

My crawling carabao poops up.

Plane

Airplane

Taot ngato, taot baba, cayot tingana.

(Iloc.) Ragadi

Ragadi

Man above, man below, wood in middle.

Man above, man below, wood in the middle.

Saw

Seen

Below the horizontally placed timber to be sawed a pit is dug; one sawyer is below in the pit, the other above, each holds a handle of the great saw, which works up and down.

Below the horizontal timber that needs to be cut, a pit is dug; one sawyer is in the pit below, and the other is above. Each one holds a handle of the large saw, which moves up and down.

Enbontayog coy ecnol quinmocaoc ya tampol.

(Pang.) Bibintarol

I throw the eggs; they crow immediately.

I throw the eggs, and they start crowing right away.

Firecracker

Firework

Adda abalbalayco a sinam granada rineppetco a binastabasta imbarsacco diay daga nasay sayaat ti cancionna,

(Iloc.) SunayPage 118

Sunay

I have a toy like a granada; I tied it around and around and threw it on the ground and it sang sweetly.

I have a toy like a grenade; I wrapped it up and threw it on the ground, and it made a sweet sound.

Top

Pusipusec ta pusegmo ta iruarco ta quinnanmo.

(Iloc.) Lacaza

Lacaza

I turn your navel to take out what you have eaten.

I turn your belly button to remove what you've eaten.

Trunk

Adda pay maysa nga quita diay balay a naaramid iti cayo quet adda met uppat nga sacana nga babasit quet adda met innem nga acaba quencuana rupano quet agngiao saan nga magna.

Adda pay maysa nga quita diay balay a naaramid iti cayo quet adda met uppat nga sacana nga babasit quet adda met innem nga acab quencuana rupano quet agngiao saan nga magna.

(Iloc.) Baol

Baol

I have something in my house made of wood; it has four short legs and six flat faces; it squeaks, but cannot walk.

I have something in my house that’s made of wood; it has four short legs and six flat sides; it squeaks, but can’t move on its own.

Trunk

No umulog ti señora augucrad ti sampaga.

(Iloc.) Payong Page 119

Umbrella

When the lady comes down the sampaga2 opens.

When the lady comes down, the sampaga2 opens.

Umbrella

Con butongon pasoc; con induso payog.

(Bis.) Payong

(Bis.) Guide

When pulled it is a cane; when pushed a tent.

When you pull it, it's a cane; when you push it, it's a tent.

Umbrella

Hindi tayop, hindi tao, apat ang suso.

(Tag.,—also Pang.) Buslo

Not animal, not man. She has four breasts.

Not an animal, not a man. She has four breasts.

Basket

Hindi hare, hinde pare, nag dadamet nang sari-sari.

(Tag.) Sampayan

(Tag.) Clothesline

Not king, not padre, it wears many kinds of clothes.

Not a king, not a dad, it wears many different kinds of clothes.

Clothes-line

Clothesline

Adda maysa nga ubing a natured ti lammin.

(Iloc.) Sudo

Sudo

There is a boy, who does not shiver with the cold.

There is a boy who doesn't shiver in the cold.

Dipper

This dipper is made from the half of a polished cocoanut shell. Page 120

This dipper is made from half of a polished coconut shell. Page 120

Nang isoot coi, tuyo, nang bunuten coi natulo.

(Tag.) Tabo

When I plunged it in it was dry; when I drew it out it was dripping.

When I put it in, it was dry; when I pulled it out, it was dripping.

Dipper

Dipper (constellation)

Sacay sino balay ina nga puno sang ventana?

Sacay sino balay na puno ng bintana?

(Bis.) Puluguan

Whose house is that, which is full of windows?

Whose house is that, that's full of windows?

The hen house

The chicken coop

No adda ti lenong agcalcal logong.

(Iloc.) Caramba

Caramba

If it is in the shade it wears its hat.

If it's in the shade, it wears its hat.

A jar full of water

A jar of water

Aniat aramid a nagbaticuling ti sabut.

(Iloc.) Pagbagasan

What work has a gizzard like a sabut?

What animal has a gizzard like a sabut?

Storage jar for rice

Rice storage jar

The sabut is the cocoanut cup or bowl: in the pagbagasan, there is always a ganta for measuring rice. This ganta is the gizzard here meant. Page 121

The sabut is the coconut cup or bowl: in the pagbagasan, there is always a ganta for measuring rice. This ganta refers to the gizzard here. Page 121

Pusepusec ti bato tumbog carayan Veto.

(Iloc.) Gilingan

Gilingan

I turn the stone and there flows out like the Veto river.

I turn the stone, and out flows a river like the Veto.

Mill

Hiniguit co ang yantok, nag bibiling ang bundoc.

Hiniguit ko ang yantok, nagahanap ang bundok.

(Tag.) Guilingan

I pulled the rope and the mountain turned.

I pulled the rope, and the mountain shifted.

Mill

Hiniguit co ang Caguin, nag kakara ang maching.

Hiniguit co ang Caguin, nag kakara ang machine.

(Tag.) Guilingan

I pulled the rope and the monkey began to howl.

I tugged on the rope and the monkey started to screech.

Mill

Grain mill

Refers to the creaking of the mill, when grinding.

Refers to the creaking sound of the mill while it's grinding.

Isang malaking babai, sa likuran tumatae.

Isang malaking babae, sa likuran umuutot.

(Tag.) Guilingan

A big woman, who excretes at the back.

A large woman who uses the restroom at the back.

Mill

The meal is here considered as excreted.

The meal is viewed here as waste.

Dinalas nang dinalas mapute ang lumabas.

(Tag.) Guilingan Page 122

Somebody got busy and something white appeared.

Somebody got to work, and something white showed up.

Mill

The ground rice pours out from the mill as a white meal.

The ground rice comes out of the mill as a white flour.

Aldo at bengi macanganga ya, manena ya yang parusa.

Aldo and I are having a discussion about the consequences.

(Pamp.) Asung

It gapes day and night awaiting punishment.

It waits day and night for punishment.

Mortar

Masonry mix

Isa lamang ang sapin, duha ang batiis apat ang pa-a, isa ang lauas, isa ang baba apang uala sing olo.

(Bis.) Luzong

He has but one shoe, two shins, four legs, one body, one mouth, but no head.

He has one shoe, two shins, four legs, one body, one mouth, but no head.

Mortar

No igamac ta siquet mo lagtoca a lagto.

(Iloc.) Al-o

Al-o

If I hold your waist you jump and jump.

If I hold your waist, you keep jumping.

Pestle

Mortar and pestle

In pounding rice, the great wooden pestle is taken by the middle, which is more slender than the pounding ends.

In pounding rice, the large wooden pestle is held by the middle, which is narrower than the pounding ends.

No magna ni arodoc agparintomeng amin a root.

(Iloc.) Arado Page 123

Arado Page 123

When the creeper passes all the grass kneels.

When the vine passes, all the grass bends down.

Plow

Cobbo ni amam quiad ni inam sica nga anacda daramodum ca.

(Iloc.) Arado

Plow

The father is bent over, the mother is bent back and the son is bent forward.

The dad is leaning forward, the mom is leaning back, and the son is leaning down.

Plow

This has reference to the different sticks, or pieces, of which the plow is composed.

This refers to the different parts or components that make up the plow.

Sa palacol nabuhay
at sa untog namatay.

(Tag.) Palayoc

Produced by hammering but destroyed by a jar.

Pot

Plant pot

Clay for pottery is prepared by pounding it with a light hammer; it is also beaten into shape in the process of giving it form.

Clay for pottery is prepared by pounding it with a lightweight hammer; it is also shaped during the process of forming it.

Pegarenco abot pegarenco abot.

(Pang.) Liquen

(Pang.) Lichen

I turn over completely, I turn over completely.

I flip over completely, I flip over completely.

Pot ring support

Pot ring stand

Adda abal-balayco a pusipusac a pusipus mabalbal-cut.

(Iloc.) PudonanPage 124

Pudonan

I have a thing, which I twine and twine and it is covered.

I have something that I wrap and wrap, and it's covered.

Weaving spool

Spool for weaving

Nano nga sapat nga baba ang naga caon, mata ang nga pamus-on?

(Bis.) Ayagan

What animal is it, which takes its food through its mouth and excretes it through its eyes?

What animal eats with its mouth and excretes through its eyes?

Sieve

Strainer

Bahay ni Guiring-guiring butas-butas ang sinding.

Bahay ni Guiring-guiring has a lot of holes in the wall.

(Tag.) Bithay

“Guiring-guiring's” house is full of holes.

Sieve

Strainer

Adda maysa a caballo; tal-lot sacana; no dica sacayan di magna.

(Iloc.) Egad

Wow

There is a horse; he has three legs; if you do not ride on him, he never walks.

There’s a horse; he has three legs; if you don’t ride him, he never moves.

Copra shredder

Coconut husk shredder

Limma ac ed Dagupan dugduaray bacatco.

(Pang.) Sali

(Pang.) Join

I went to Dagupan but I left only two footprints.

I went to Dagupan, but I left just two footprints.

Sled

Sledding

Aniat aramid a duduat tugaona Page 125inganat panacaparsuana?

(Iloc.) Pasagad

Handle it.

What work has two seats since its creation?

What work has had two seats since it was created?

Sled

Sledding

Ania ti uppat ti sacana dudua ti tugotna?

(Iloc.) Pasagad

Pasagad

What has four feet but only two foot-prints?

What has four legs but only two footprints?

Rice-sled

Rice cooker

The sled for hauling rice has four supports or legs, which end in two runners.

The sled for carrying rice has four legs that end in two runners.

Pusepusec ti pengan tum-bog carayan Vigan.

(Iloc.) Dadapilan

Dadapilan

I turn the plate and water flows out like the Vigan River.

I turn the plate and water spills out like the Vigan River.

Sugarmill

Sugar factory

Oalay baboy con baleg son laben nga libngaleb.

(Pang.) Darapitan

I have a large pig; during the night he grunts.

I have a big pig; at night he makes grunting sounds.

Sugarmill

Sugar mill

Tite nang ama mo, isinubsob co sa abo.

Tite of your mother, I buried in the ashes.

(Tag.) Camote

(Tag.) Sweet potato

Your father's ——— I place in the ashes.

Your father's ——— I put in the ashes.

Camote Page 126

Sweet potato

The camote is a sort of sweet potato; it may be baked in the ashes.

The camote is a type of sweet potato; it can be roasted in the ashes.

Nagsabong ti sinan malucong nagbunga uneg ti daga.

(Iloc.) Camote

Sweet potato

It produces a flower like a cup; fruit underground.

It produces a flower shaped like a cup; fruit grows underground.

Camote

Sweet potato

Sirad mirabilis oalad dalem so sicsic.

Sirad mirabilis is a cool plant.

(Pang.) Cete

Cete

The mirabilis (fish) has his scales inside.

The mirabilis fish has internal scales.

Cete

Cete

The cete (“piquante”) is the pepper.

The cete (“piquante”) is the spice.

Otin nen laquic Duardo batil ya anga ed ngoro.

(Pang.) Palia

Palia

My grandfather Eduardo's ——— is covered with pimples.

My grandfather Eduardo's ——— is covered in pimples.

Cucumber

Oquis nan bagasnan.

Oquis in the bagasnan.

(Iloc.) Lasona

Lasona

Its bark is its seed.

Onion

Binili ang isang minithi kong bagay at ang hinahangad ay pakina-bangan, pagdating sa amin ang pinangyarihan, nang gagamitin luha koy bumakal.

Binili ang isang bagay na matagal ko nang gustong magkaroon at ang inaasahan ay makakabuti sa amin, nang dumating ang pagkakataon, napaiyak ako sa damdamin.

(Tag.) Sibuyas Page 127

(Tag.) Onions Page 127

I bought a thing I wished to use; when I tried to use it my tears fell.

I bought something I wanted to use; when I tried to use it, I broke down in tears.

Onion

Isda co sa Mariveles sapin-sapin ang caliskis.

Isda sa Mariveles na may layered colors ang balat.

(Tag.) Sile

My fish in Mariveles has manifold scales.

My fish in Mariveles has many scales.

Pepper

Scales laid upon one another; the seeds of the pepper are flat and stacked against one another.

Scales are stacked on top of each other; the pepper seeds are flat and pressed against each other.

Mahanghang hindi naman paminta; maputi hindi naman papel; verde hindi naman suha; turang mong bigla.

(Tag.) Rabanos

(Tag.) Radishes

It is sharp but not pepper; white but not paper; green but not shaddock; guess what that is.

It’s sharp but not pepper, white but not paper, green but not shaddock—can you guess what it is?

Radish

Ang iloy naga camang ang bata naga pungco.

Ang iloy nag-aalaga sa bata na naglalaro.

(Bis.) Calabaza

(Bis.) Pumpkin

The mother creeps, and the son sits.

The mother sneaks in, and the son sits down.

Squash

Squash game

The mother is the vine; the child is the fruit. The riddle gains point, by suggesting Page 128a reversal of the natural conditions.

The mother is the vine; the child is the fruit. The riddle becomes more significant by suggesting Page 128a reversal of the natural conditions.

Ania iti parsua ni Apo Dios nga aoan ti matana aoan ti ngioatna quen aoan ti obetna quet mangan ti ladoc-ladoc?

Ania iti parsua ni Apo Dios nga awan ti mata na, awan ti ngiwat na, ken awan ti obet na, ket mangan ti ladoc-ladoc?

(Iloc.) Tabungao

Tabungao

What creature of Lord God has no eyes, no mouth, no anus—and eats ladoc-ladoc?

A white squash

A white zucchini

Ladoc-ladoc is rice flattened in the mortar by the blows of the pounder. The seeds of the tabungao resemble it.

Ladoc-ladoc is rice that has been flattened in the mortar by striking it with a pestle. The seeds of the tabungao look similar to it.

Berdi ya balat, malutu ya laman anti mo ing pacuan.

(Pamp.) Pacuan

Its skin is green and its flesh is like a watermelon.

Its skin is green and its flesh is like that of a watermelon.

Watermelon

The riddle is poor, in that it introduces the answer as a term of comparison, in a way to mislead. Similar cases occur in other lands.

The riddle is weak because it presents the answer as something to compare to, which can confuse people. Similar situations happen in other places.

Verde ang balat pula ang laman espectorante cung turan.

Verde ang balat, pula ang laman, espectorante kung turan.

(Tag.) Pacuan

(Tag.) Game

Green skin, red meat, espectorante they call it.

Green skin, red meat, expectorant they call it.

Watermelon Page 129

Watermelon

Limocsoac alabasco agco asabi.

(Pang.) Pacanengneng

I jumped further but I did not reach.

I jumped further, but I didn't make it.

To see

To view

Naga dalagan nga ua-ay sing ti-il cog naga ngurub nga ua-ay sing baba.

(Bis.) Balod

It runs having no feet and it roars having no mouth.

It runs without feet and roars without a mouth.

Waves

Ania iti mainaganan ari ditoy bagui?

(Iloc.) Aripoyot

Aripoyot

What king (ari) do you name in your body?

What king (ari) do you call within yourself?

Aripoyot

This is the great inner muscle of the upper leg.

This is the major inner muscle of the thigh.

Cung hindi lamang ang tatlong letra t, o, at s ay kinakain sana siya.

Cung hindi lang ang tatlong letra t, o, at s ay kinakain sana siya.

(Tag.) Asintos

But for the letters t o s we would be eating it.

(String)

The word asintos means string; dropping Page 130the letters tos we have asin left, meaning salt.

The word asintos means string; dropping Page 130 the letters tos, we have asin left, which means salt.

Bugtong pasmiasa, puno at duloi may bunga.

(Tag.) Calamias

(Tag.) Calamities

Bugtong pas“mias”a, whose trunk and branches have fruit.

Calamias

Disasters

Bugtong is a riddle: the word pas“mias”a has no meaning. There is here a mere play on the sound of words. “Pas“mias”a suggests the answer.

Bugtong is a riddle: the word pas“mias”a has no meaning. There is simply a play on the sound of words here. “Pas“mias”a suggests the answer.

Casano iti panangtiliu iti ugsa a di masapul iti silo, aso, gayang, oen no a aniaman a paniliu?

(Iloc.) Urayec a maloto

Urayec a maloto

How do you take a deer without net, dogs, spear, or other things for catching?

How can you catch a deer without using a net, dogs, a spear, or any other tools?

Cooked

Laguiung tao, laguiung manuc, delana ning me tung a yayup.

(Pamp.) Culassisi

Culassisi

The name of a man, the name of a chicken, were carried by a bird.

The name of a man and the name of a chicken were carried by a bird.

Culas is a man's name; sisi the name of a chicken. Combined they make a bird's name. Page 131

Culas is a guy's name; sisi is the name of a hen. Together, they create the name of a bird. Page 131

Indi sapat indi man tano apang, ang ngalan nia si “esco.”

(Bis.,—also Tag.) Escopidor, Escopeta.

(Bis.,—also Tag.) Scoop, Shotgun.

Neither animal nor man but its name is “esco.”

Neither animal nor human, but it’s called “esco.”

Escopidor, Escopeta

Scoop, Shotgun

A mere play on the words. Esco is a nickname for Francisco. The escupidor is a cuspidor, the escopeta a broom. The meaning of the words goes for nothing. The words are both of Spanish origin.

A simple wordplay. Esco is a nickname for Francisco. The escupidor is a spittoon, the escopeta is a shotgun. The meanings of the words don’t really matter. The words are both of Spanish origin.

Macatu ti poonna, rugac iti ngo-duna.

(Iloc.) Macaturugac

Macaturugac

Macatu = cloth

Macatu = fabric

Rugac = old, rotten clothing

Rugac = worn-out, torn clothes

Cloth is the beginning; tatters the ending.

Cloth is the start; rags are the finish.

i.e. Macatu is the beginning, rugac the ending. The whole word means I am sleeping.

i.e. Macatu means the beginning, rugac means the ending. The whole word means I am sleeping.

Salapi iti poona; ngao ti ngodona.

Salapi ito sa unahan; ngunit ang ngodon nito.

(Iloc.) Salapingao

Salapingao

(Fifty cents) Salapi is the beginning; ( ) ngao the end. Page 132

(Fifty cents) Money is the beginning; ( ) debt the end. Page 132

The Salapingao is a bird “like a swallow.”

The Salapingao is a bird “similar to a swallow.”

Sinampal co bago inaloc.

Sinampal ko bago inaloc.

(Tag.) Sampaloc

I slapped before I offered.

Sampaloc

There is simple word play here; the beginning and end of the riddle give the word S(in)ampal-oc. The Sampaloc is a fruit tree.

There is simple wordplay here; the beginning and end of the riddle give the word S(in)ampal-oc. The Sampaloc is a fruit tree.

Philippine Studies

I

A Little Book of Filipino Riddles

Collected and Edited by Frederick Starr

World Book Co. Yonkers, New York 1909

Introduction

Bibliography of Works Mentioned in the Introduction

Filipino Riddles

Animals: mammals.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

Bell.

14

15

16

17

Betel.

18

19

20

21

Birds.

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

Boats.

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

Body: parts.

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

64

65

66

Collected and Edited
by Frederick Starr

World Book Co.
Yonkers, New York
1909