Muji, Qila in China

Introduction / History

The Muji, Qila people, a small ethnic group in China's Yunnan Province, have lived in this region for generations. Their history is intertwined with the mountains and rivers that define their homeland. As part of the larger Tibeto-Burman language family, the Muji, Qila have maintained their distinct identity through centuries of isolation. While they have experienced some influence from neighboring groups, the Muji, Qila have largely preserved their language, customs and traditional way of life, passing them down through generations.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Muji, Qila people rely on subsistence farming to sustain their families and communities. They cultivate crops like maize, rice and vegetables on the terraced fields of their mountainous region. In addition to farming, they raise livestock, including goats and chickens, which provide both food and income.

The Muji, Qila live in small, close-knit villages where communal cooperation plays a key role in their daily lives. Families work together in the fields, and village elders hold significant influence over decision-making and social organization. Their homes, typically constructed from wood and stone, are built to endure the challenging mountain climate.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Muji, Qila practice a combination of animism and ancestor worship, with elements of Buddhism present in some areas. They believe that spirits inhabit the natural world, and these spirits must be respected to ensure harmony and prosperity in their lives. Rituals are performed to honor these spirits, particularly during key agricultural cycles such as planting and harvesting. Ancestral worship plays an important role in their spiritual life, with ceremonies conducted to honor past generations and seek their guidance. While some Muji, Qila have incorporated Buddhist practices, traditional beliefs remain central to their spiritual identity.

What Are Their Needs?

The Muji, Qila face significant challenges due to their remote location and limited access to modern services. Healthcare is difficult to access, and many in the community lack proper medical care. Educational opportunities are scarce, with few children receiving formal schooling beyond the primary level. Economic development remains limited, with most Muji, Qila relying on subsistence agriculture for survival. Development initiatives that focus on improving access to healthcare, education and sustainable agricultural practices are essential for the community's future. These programs must also respect the Muji, Qila's cultural heritage and provide solutions that are adaptable to their traditional way of life.

Prayer Points

Pray for gospel workers in China to catch a vision for reaching the Muji people for Jesus and that in God’s sovereign timing their hearts would be open and ready to follow him.
Pray for Jesus movements to bless extended families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Muji people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project