The correct idiom is “as poor as a church mouse.” It is a phrase that describes someone who is extremely poor or impoverished. It paints a vivid picture of scarcity and hardship, drawing on the image of a small creature (mouse) struggling to find sustenance in a place not known for abundance.
This idiom originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. Churches were places of worship and community gathering, but they were not typically associated with food storage or wealth. Mice, which might inhabit church buildings, would therefore have limited access to food, making them a symbol of poverty.
The preference for “mouse” over “rat” in this phrase might step from people’s view about culture. Mice are often seen as more harmless and even somewhat endearing, whereas rats have been historically been viewed more negatively due to their association with disease and filth.
The use of “mouse” reflects the desire to evoke sympathy rather than revulsion or disgust.
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