It is confirmed that a phrase of 'monto mono shirazu' appeared in "Tatoezukushi" (collection of Common Sayings), a book compiled in 1786, and "Nezumi Komon Haru no Shingata" (The Rat and the Fine Patterned New Spring Fashion), a Kabuki (traditional drama performed by male actors) play firstly performed in 1857.
「門徒物知らず」という言葉が文献に見られる例としては、1786年の『譬喩尽』と1857年初演の歌舞伎「鼠小紋東君新形」が確認されている。