Bahonsuai in Indonesia

Introduction / History

The Bahonsuai are a very small people group located on Sulawesi Island. Their language, Bahonsuai, is endangered as their young people are speaking Bahasa, the official language of Indonesia. Most likely, they will not survive long as a separate people group.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Little is known about the Bahonsuai people. They live on the coast, so likely depend on fishing for their livelihood.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bahonsuai are Muslims, following the teachings of the Koran and of the prophet Muhammad. They see Allah as distant, not involved in the affairs of daily life, so they also practice animism to appease the spirits that are believed to determine their days.

What Are Their Needs?

With their language and their identity as a distinct people group endangered, the Bahonsuai need to integrate successfully among surrounding peoples. Although no Christian resources are available in their native language, the complete Bible and many other resources are available in Bahasa, which is becoming their primary language.

Prayer Points

Ask God to send workers to the Bahonsuai to introduce them to the gospel.
Pray for open hearts among the Bahonsuai to recognize the truth of the gospel, and for readiness to forsake false religion to follow Jesus.
Pray for God's blessing on the leaders of the Bahonsuai people, along with their families, and for their communities to welcome and enjoy God's blessing.
Pray for the Lord to raise up a strong disciple making movement to saturate the hearts and minds of the Bahonsuai people of Indonesia.

Text Source:   Joshua Project