Ticuna in Colombia

Introduction / History

The Ticuna people lived far enough from the riverways that they avoided contact with early Spanish and Portuguese colonists. This meant they did not suffer from European diseases as much as other tribes. By the late 1800s they were used as slave laborers on rubber plantations.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today the Ticuna people wear western style clothes. The exception would be those who work in the tourist industry. In those cases, they wear traditional clothing. They use parrot feathers for headdresses, ornaments and ceremonies.
Those in rural areas grow manioc and hunt for their food supply. They live in communities of 50-150 people. The Ticuna tribe has to be vigilant because fishermen, loggers and rubber tappers encroach on their land.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they are largely Christian, the Ticuna people were traditionally shamanists. They believed in Ta’e, a god of creation who protected the earth. They also believed in a number of mythical heroes. Typically, tribal peoples maintain some of their old religious practices even when they adhere to a major religion like Christianity. In regard to the Ticuna people, this is especially true in Peru. They are more Christianized in Colombia and Brazil.

What Are Their Needs?

The Ticuna people are usually poor, and they lack educational opportunities. They face a constant struggle to protect their homeland from outsiders.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Ticuna people to have the educational opportunities they need.
Pray for the Ticuna people to make a way for Jesus to be central to their lives. May he guide them in the 21st century.
Pray for Ticuna disciples to make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project