Bai, Southern in China
Photo Source:
Luca Casartelli - Flickr
Creative Commons
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Map Source:
People Group location: Operation China. Map geography: ESRI / GMI. Map design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Bai, Southern |
| Country: | China |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 671,000 |
| World Population: | 671,000 |
| Primary Language: | Bai, Southern |
| Primary Religion: | Buddhism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.13 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.13 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Tibeto-Burman, other |
| Affinity Bloc: | Tibetan-Himalayan Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Bai were involved in the establishment of the powerful Nanzhao Kingdom which was centered south of Dali. The kingdom grew so strong that they were able to defeat the Tang armies in the mid-700s. The kingdom flourished for 400 years until it collapsed in the tenth century and was replaced by the Kingdom of Dali. Dali, in turn, lasted until AD 1252 when it was overrun and destroyed by the all-conquering Mongol armies.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Bai have gradually been assimilated into Chinese culture. Dali has always been famous for its prolific supply of marble, which may have given the people their name (Bai means "white" in Chinese).
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Bai are followers of Mahayana Buddhism. The emphasis of Mahayana is on emptiness and that there is no firm reality.
What Are Their Needs?
Bai believers live in rural areas in the mountains and in Fugong County to the west. Most Bai, however, have yet to hear the gospel message. The Southern Bai people need to hear about Jesus Christ and submit to his lordship so they can experience the abundant life he alone offers them.
Prayer Points
Pray for the spiritual blindness and bondage to the evil one to be removed so the Southern Bai can respond to Christ.
Pray for the Lord to provide for their physical and spiritual needs as a testimony of his power and love.
Pray that the Southern Bai people will have a spiritual hunger and open their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for a movement of the Southern Bai to Christ.