Okinawan, Ryukyuan in United States

Introduction / History

The Ryukyuan are the indigenous peoples of Japan’s Ryukyu Islands. Traditionally, the people have a very tightly-knit family life and enjoy close personal friendships. They see themselves as bound together by their home island and, especially among older people, will always consider themselves from Ryukyuan first and Japan second. They are among the longest-lived people in the world.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Ryukuyan are known as a peaceful people and have always considered the arts and music as more honorable than combat skills. Their identity with the Ryukyu Islands will become weaker as time goes on. In the United States, they must deal with a much more foreign culture than what they found in Japan.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Native Uchina religion places strong emphasis upon the role of the women in the community, with women holding positions as shamans and guardians of the home. Most of the younger generation are not serious adherents of this religion anymore, but many older people try to teach about the old ways, including dances and the language.

What Are Their Needs?

The Ryukuyan people in the United States need to find their way to the cross and the empty grave.

Prayer Points

A small number of the Ryukyuan people identify themselves as Christians. Pray they will be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. Pray for the people on the Ruykyuan islands to become aware of their need for forgiveness of sin, and that forgiveness has been provided through faith in the work of Christ on the cross. Pray for Christ followers in the United States to introduce these people to the King of kings and disciple them in his ways.

Text Source:   Joshua Project