Every culture has its own collection of superstitions, small beliefs that give everyday occurrences a special meaning. Paraguay is no exception, with good luck sometimes appearing in unexpected places. Shared through family stories and everyday conversations, these beliefs remain a familiar part of Paraguayan popular culture. From curious animal behaviour to small household mishaps, here are five signs associated with good fortune in Paraguay.
1. An itchy palm: Che po remói
In Paraguay, an itchy palm can be more than just an irritating sensation. According to popular belief, che po remói, a Guarani expression meaning “my hand itches”, is a sign that money may soon come your way.
The superstition is commonly associated with receiving unexpected money or experiencing a little financial luck. Some people even make a small gesture of catching the imaginary money with their other hand and putting it into their pocket, as if making sure the good fortune does not slip away. Some people believe in the prediction, while others simply enjoy the tradition. Either way, che po remói is a familiar expression in everyday Paraguayan conversations.
2. When a dog drags its bottom across the floor
When a scooting dog drags its bottom across the floor or rubs it against the ground, in some regions of Paraguay this is another sign of money incoming.
The superstition gives this peculiar sight an optimistic meaning, offering anyone who witnesses it a reason to hope for extra cash.
3. A toad around the house: A sign of abundance
Finding a toad around the house may not be everyone’s favourite surprise, but according to popular belief, it can be a welcome one. In Paraguay, a toad appearing in the home can be associated with prosperity, abundance and financial good fortune. The same belief applies when several toads appear in the backyard. Some people welcome the animal, considering its presence a positive sign for the household.
The toad also has a place in other Paraguayan superstitions associated with attracting money. Some locals place toad amulets in their gardens, following this popular belief. So, the next time a toad appears in the backyard, someone might see more than just a peculiar visitor passing through.
4. Spilled yerba mate: A fortunate accident
Tereré and mate (traditional Paraguayan drinks) are deeply familiar parts of everyday life in Paraguay. From family gatherings to afternoons with friends, preparing and sharing these traditional drinks is often accompanied by its own customs and beliefs.
One popular superstition concerns accidentally spilling yerba mate while filling a guampa, the traditional vessel used to prepare and drink tereré and mate. Some Paraguayans see more than a small mess to clean up. They interpret the incident as a sign that money is coming their way.
The belief is particularly interesting because it turns an ordinary accident into a prediction of financial good fortune. It is also among the many popular beliefs surrounding yerba mate, a drink that has its own collection of customs and rituals in Paraguay.
5. A fallen eyelash: A little game of luck
A fallen eyelash offers an opportunity to share a playful ritual. When someone spots one on another person’s face, they carefully pick it up with their thumb.
The two people press their thumbs together with the eyelash between them, then pull them apart. Whoever has the eyelash on their thumb receives the good luck.
Whether taken seriously or enjoyed as a game, these beliefs survive through family stories and everyday exchanges. Their rituals give each generation small ways to participate in superstitions in Paraguay.
