Zoque, Copainala in Mexico

Zoque, Copainala
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People Name: Zoque, Copainala
Country: Mexico
10/40 Window: No
Population: 16,000
World Population: 16,000
Primary Language: Zoque, Copainala
Primary Religion: Christianity
Christian Adherents: 95.00 %
Evangelicals: 6.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Mixe
Affinity Bloc: Latin-Caribbean Americans
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Zoque people in Mexico are identified by the Zoque language. There are five subgroups divided by dialect. One of these is Copainala. The Zoques were conquered by the Aztecs, then by the Spanish. Spanish control of Zoque territories resulted in abusive labor environments, the spread of deadly foreign diseases, and a form of Christianizing that involved force. In 1922, the Zoques were given ejidos, or community lands, by the Mexican government.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, Copainala Zoque culture is fading into the larger Mexican mainstream. Some still practice traditional ways, such as farming with digging sticks and hoes. Staples of the Copainala Zoque diet include chiles, corn, beans, and squash. They breed farm animals like pigs for some of their food. They weave and make clay pots for their own needs and to sell. Some have found construction work in urban Mexico.

What Are Their Beliefs?

While Christianity is the dominant religion, it has been syncretized with traditional spiritual beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

The Copainala Zoque people need accessible medical clinics in their villages.

Prayer Points

Ask God to protect the Copainala Zoques from false doctrine.
Pray that faith would come by hearing the word of God, and for the transformation of minds and hearts.
Ask that the Zoques would follow Jesus, make and be faithful disciples, fellowshi

Text Source:   Joshua Project