Maka in Paraguay

Introduction / History

Maka is the language of a people group by the same name. They once lived in both Argentina and Paraguay, but now they only live in Paraguay, mostly near the capital city of Asuncion. They were once hunters and gatherers.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In the past, their economy was based on hunting, fishing and gathering, and nowadays, part of the women's work is the manufacture of ponchos, handbags, sashes, hammocks, carvings and blankets. Men acquire the right to speak and vote between the ages of 20 and 22, after they have married.

They live in wooden homes that are far sturdier than what they had 100 years ago.

In 2019, they selected the widow of their tribal leader as their chief. The Maka people respect the decision making of women.

A little over 1,000 people speak the Maka language. Most likely, their language will be replaced by Spanish in the coming decades.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Maka indigenous colony periodically performs ceremonies that revive rites of their ancestors. This indigenous people admires the moon and the sun. They know several supernatural beings; the festivities are marked by the stars. The shamans, known as wihetaj heal by incantation of evil spirits and are the depositaries of the Maka traditions.

What Are Their Needs?

The Maka people need to prepare for the future. This will involve learning valuable skills that will help them earn higher wages.

Prayer Points

Pray for the biblical teachers of the church and wisdom in their preparation as leaders.
May the Christians among them be stirred up to preach Christ with their lives and their words.
Pray for economic growth among the maka.
Pray for the preparation of biblical materials in the Maka language.

Text Source:   Joshua Project