Introduction / History

Traditionally the Samtao people lived in what is now the city of Kunming, in Yunnan Province. They are being overrun by the Han Chinese, and in the process, their language and culture is at risk. According to one source, only about 100 people still speak their language, and the others are now speaking Mandarin, China's official language. Samatao is one of the so-called Yi languages, which is actually a conglomerate of various tribal languages, often with different linguistic roots.

The Samatao people still live in Kunming, but some live in other parts of Yunnan Province.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Samatao people are struggling to keep their language and culture in a place where the Han Chinese dominate their lives.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Samatao people have their own traditional religion which is being replaced either by secularism or Chinese religion.

What Are Their Needs?

The Samatao people need to put their identity in Jesus Christ, the only sure foundation in difficult times.

Prayer Points

Pray for gospel workers to catch a vision for reaching the Samatao people for Jesus and that they would turn their hearts to follow Him.
Pray for Jesus movements to bless Samatao families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Samatao people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.
Pray for the lives and culture of the Samatao people to evidence the rule and reign of the Kingdom of God as they open to the gospel, and for the beauty of Jesus to be seen in them.

Scripture Prayers for the Samatao in China.

References

Operation China, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted © Used with permission.