Mok in Thailand

Introduction / History

The Mok people, a small ethnic group in northern Thailand, have lived in the mountainous regions for generations. Their history is deeply connected to the forested hills they call home, and their way of life has been shaped by the natural environment. Despite the spread of modernization and urbanization in Thailand, the Mok have retained their language and traditions, preserving their distinct cultural identity. Their isolation in the mountains has helped them maintain a degree of autonomy, although they have faced pressures from external forces throughout history.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mok people primarily engage in subsistence farming, growing crops such as rice, maize and vegetables. Their agricultural practices are adapted to the hilly terrain, with the community often working together during planting and harvesting seasons. In addition to farming, they gather forest products and engage in small-scale animal husbandry to supplement their diet and income. The Mok live in close-knit villages, where extended families form the foundation of social life. Their houses, built from bamboo and wood, reflect the practical needs of their environment, offering shelter from the seasonal rains and cool mountain climate.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Mok people practice a combination of animism and Buddhism. While many have adopted Buddhism, particularly through the influence of Thai society, traditional animist beliefs remain a central part of their spiritual lives. The Mok believe that spirits inhabit the natural world, including the forests, rivers and mountains. Rituals and ceremonies are performed to honor these spirits, particularly during important agricultural cycles and life events. These beliefs guide their relationship with nature and the land, blending with Buddhist practices to form a unique religious identity.

What Are Their Needs?

The Mok community faces significant challenges, including limited access to healthcare, education and economic opportunities. Their remote location further isolates them from broader Thai society, making it difficult to access essential services. Environmental degradation and changing climate patterns also threaten their traditional farming practices. Development programs that focus on sustainable agriculture, improved access to healthcare and education, and infrastructure development would greatly benefit the Mok people. Initiatives that respect their cultural heritage while providing opportunities for economic development are essential for their future well-being.

Prayer Points

Ask God to open the eyes, hearts and ears of the Mok people to the good news of the savior.
Pray for the Lord to raise up the right people to disciple the Mok people in his ways.
Pray for the Lord to demonstrate his power and goodness among them in a way they will understand.
Ask for an intervention of the Holy Spirit in each Mok families.

Text Source:   Joshua Project