Atikum in Brazil

Introduction / History

As early as the late 1600s, the Atikum and other peoples had conflicts with Portuguese settlers who were encroaching on their land.
At one time the Atikum people lost their indigenous lands in Brazil's state of Pernambuco, Brazil. White people burned their houses and took their land, claiming the Atikum-Uma were not Indians. They had to show an indigenous tradition to re-establish their Indian identity and reclaim the land. This situation reinforces their traditional shamanistic ways.
They have lost their traditional language which has been replaced by Portuguese. They have 20 villages in Bahia and Pernambuco states.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Atikum people prepare a brew from the jurema plant root for healing purposes. They consider this plant to be sacred. O Paje, a spiritual leader, chooses roots that face the rising sun. The outer bark is removed, and the inner bark is put in a container full of cold water and squeezed repeatedly until the water turns deep reddish brown. Then mediums drink the psychoactive brew as part of a trance possession ritual that beckons what they consider to be enchanted beings of light. These spirits move into the bodies of mediums who perform a special dance.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though some of the Atikum people are officially Roman Catholic, put their faith in traditional religion.

What Are Their Needs?

The Atikum people need to put their hope and faith in Jesus Christ rather than the spirit world.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will send disciplers who will lead the Atikum people to disciple others in the ways of Christ.
May the Atikum-Uma people experience spiritual healing in the name above all names.
Pray for healing in the name of Jesus that will draw the Atikum people to put their faith in Jesus Christ alone.

Text Source:   Joshua Project