Thakali Marphali in Nepal
Photo Source:
Indra Jworchan
|
Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
|
| People Name: | Thakali Marphali |
| Country: | Nepal |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 2,000 |
| World Population: | 2,000 |
| Primary Language: | Thakali |
| Primary Religion: | Buddhism |
| Christian Adherents: | 1.79 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Translation Started |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Buddhist |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
|
Introduction / History
Marphali is one of the Thakali tribes. Small in number, they live in central Nepal.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Thakali Marphalis have their own traditional village assembly, elected headmen, village workers, mediators, and village law. They are divided into four clans, or lineages. All family heads gather once every third year at the main meeting of the village assembly and establish ground rules for the village. They work in agriculture and commerce.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Although slightly influenced by the Bon religion, Thakali Marphalis are basically followers of Buddhism. Like other Thakalis, they believe in local gods, goddesses, and spirits, such as Chan Lu, Ganyo Chacha, Alu Paldong, and Syopta. The Thakali tribes have a long history of commitment to Buddhism, with Hindu influence as well. The worldview of Buddhism is quite different than that of Christianity.
What Are Their Needs?
Thakali Marphalis need the chance to encounter the Risen Christ. As it stands, they are Buddhist, like their ancestors. Who will tell them?
Prayer Points
Please pray that Nepali Christians will be made aware of the Marphali Thakali tribe and will take steps to carry the good news of Jesus to them.Please pray that this Buddhist group will be given faith to believe in the One who does bring life, and life abundantly.Pray that many will soon come to Christ will be able to fully make the needed shift in their thinking as to the nature of God.Pray for God to get the attention of the Thakali tribes by giving them an abundant harvest in the coming years.