The Lama are one of several distinct language groups combined to form the official Nu nationality in China. In the late 1800s, their villages were raided and the Lama were taken as slaves. Today, the Lama in Bijiang retain vestiges of a patriarchal clan system. Their homes are constructed on steep 75 degree slopes. The region is extremely mountainous, with the highest peaks rising more than 3,000 meters (9,840 ft.) above sea level.
The Lama have a custom of naming a man three times during his lifetime. The first time occurs just after birth. A male elder, usually a grandfather, gives the baby a name which will be used all his life. At the age of 14 or 15 he is given another name which can only be used among his friends and people of his own generation. When a man gets married, he is named a third time. His name is connected to his father's by prefixing his name with the last sound of his father's name.
The Bai Lama practice ethnic religions involving animism and ancestor worship. In the past, clan leaders among the Lama also doubled as the village shamans. Their main job was to practice divination to ensure a bountiful harvest.
There are a small number of Catholic believers among the Lama in China. Most of the Bai Lama still need to hear about God’s gift of eternal life in Christ.
Pray for the Lord to reach the Bai Lama with his message of salvation and eternal life.
Pray for their hearts to be open to the work of the Holy Spirit.
Pray for a growing movement of believers among the Bai Lama who will boldly share the gospel and disciple those around them.
Scripture Prayers for the Bai, Lama in China.
Operation China, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted © Used with permission.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
