Han Chinese, Mandarin in Brunei

Introduction / History

Mandarin speakers are among the Han Chinese, the largest ethnic group worldwide. They are the majority in China, and there is a Chinese diaspora in most nations of the world including Brunei.

The Han Chinese began fleeing to other countries in 1276 after the Mongol invasion. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in other nations. Others went as merchants, including the Mandarin Chinese. Some came to Brunei in the 1600s. By 1960 the Han Chinese people made up one-fourth of this oil-rich country, but their numbers have decreased substantially since then.

Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, though they represent only a small percentage of the population.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Mandarin Chinese have maintained their culture and language to varying degrees. They retain Chinese customs regarding marriage and family. The children are pushed to do well in school and are given much time to devote to their studies.

The Mandarin Chinese are known for their politeness and will go to great lengths to avoid disputes. However, once a dispute begins it is very difficult to stop because the Chinese place a high value on "saving face." Giving ground in an open dispute would cause them to lose face—something the Mandarin Chinese try to avoid at all costs.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese have generally maintained traditional Chinese religion. Over time these traditional religious beliefs added elements of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. These beliefs are centered around the concept of maintaining harmony, something greatly valued by all Chinese people.

The Mandarin Chinese consult horoscopes in an attempt to determine what course of action will promote harmony and bring good luck. They also believe in a pantheon of spirits who inhabit the earth. The spirits of their ancestors supposedly roam the earth, and if treated properly they will bring good luck. Ghosts are the spirits of people who are angry at the circumstances of their death; they are malicious and capricious. By contrast, deities are the souls of people who lived virtuous lives. They have spiritual powers that can be used to benefit those who worship them. Although the Mandarin Chinese claim adherence to these beliefs, they seem to have little effect on their everyday lives. Many are non-religious in their daily practices.

There are Christians among Mandarin speakers. Most of these are strong in their faith. They can be used by God to disciple many.

What Are Their Needs?

Mandarin Chinese people need to take the precious gospel to the Muslims in Brunei. It will be difficult, but they have a rare opportunity to reach this unreached people group.

Prayer Points

Pray for Mandarin Chinese people to be Christ’s ambassadors to Muslims in Brunei.
Pray for the Lord's blessing of the Mandarin Chinese diaspora and the work of their hands as a testimony of his goodness and power.
Pray for Mandarin workers, filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit, to disciple others.
Pray for Mandarin speakers to begin a family-based movement to Christ that will bless them abundantly.

Text Source:   Joshua Project