Bouyei in Laos

Introduction / History

Bouyei—which has eight tones—is a Northern Tai language, similar (and in some places identical) to Northern Zhuang. There are three Bouyei dialects in China, although as many as 40 dialects have been incorrectly reported in the past. Sometimes the Bouyei language dialects vary from village to village.
Though this people group is most numerous in China, they also live in Vietnam and Laos.

What Are Their Lives Like?

When a Bouyei woman is in the process of giving birth, they put a tree branch across the door to prevent intruders from entering. An altar to the spirits is erected to ensure the delivery goes smoothly. After the birth, the placenta is buried under the bed.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bouyei are polytheists. They also practice an ancient form of exorcism called nuo. "A family will hire a shaman to cast out demons of illness or bad fortune. Ceremonies include climbing knife ladders, walking on fire or glass, and other activities to demonstrate the power of the spirits."

What Are Their Needs?

Since the Bouyei believe in many gods, there are a lot of barriers to understanding there is only one sovereign God. They need a relationship with the only God, God the Father, who can provide them everything they need.

Prayer Points

Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.
Pray for the authority of Christ to bind hindering spiritual forces to lead them from darkness to light.
Pray for signs and wonders to happen among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.

Text Source:   Joshua Project