Eurasian in Thailand

Introduction / History

Eurasians, a minority people group in various parts of Asia and Europe, are the descendants of the original Portuguese, British, and Dutch settlers who came with the colonial rulers of the early centuries. These settlers married native women and created a mixed race known as Eurasian, a term used by the British around 1820 to label people with a mix of European and Asian blood. However, Thailand was not dominated by Western colonial powers.

There are some Westerners who have married Thai women and settled in Thailand. Their children are considered Eurasian.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Eurasians don't have one particular culture. They try to fit in with the local population, but they are accepted in some countries more than others.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In many Eurasian homes, certain rituals must be followed when a death occurs. For instance, they maintain that the spirit of the deceased remains in the house for several days. Thus, on the seventh day, a vigil is kept until midnight, at which time the spirit would give some sign of its departure before leaving the house. Some families leave a favorite beverage for the departing spirit. Although many of their beliefs are rooted in Christian traditions, few relate to a personal faith relationship with Jesus Christ.

In Thailand, there is a small Christian majority of the Eurasians. This sets them apart from the Thai Buddhist majority.

What Are Their Needs?

Eurasians sometimes feel rejected and have low self-esteem. They need to experience the acceptance and love of God the Father.

Prayer Points

Pray that Eurasians in Thailand will find the love and acceptance they need to thrive spiritually and experience joy and wholeness.
Pray for Eurasians to have a true desire to find spiritual truth and a relationship with the living God.
Pray that soon, Eurasians will become Christ's ambassadors to Muslims and Buddhists in Thailand.

Text Source:   Joshua Project