Han Chinese, Hakka in Panama

People Name:	Han Chinese, Hakka
Country:	Panama
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	30,000
World Population:	44,256,800
Primary Language:	Chinese, Hakka
Primary Religion:	Non-Religious
Christian Adherents:	8.00 %
Evangelicals:	5.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Chinese
Affinity Bloc:	East Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Hakka, although proud of their cultural differences, have never claimed to be non-Chinese. Many famous Chinese have been Hakka, including Deng Xiaoping, Lee Kwan Yew, and Hong Xiuquan (the leader of the Taiping Rebellion).

There is much speculation concerning the historical roots of the Hakka. Some claim that they were the first Chinese people to arrive in China. Others claim that the Hakka are the descendants of the Xiongnu tribe. This much is agreed upon: At various stages between the fourth and thirteenth centuries AD, large numbers of people were forced to flee their homes in the war-torn Yellow River valley to seek refuge in southern China. These war refugees came to be known as Kejia - a Hakka word meaning "strangers" or "guests." When the savage Mongol hordes swept across China in the thirteenth century, many Hakka fled to the south to escape the carnage.

In today’s world, the Hakka are among the Chinese diaspora in many countries including Panama.

The first Hakkas (and other Han Chinese groups) arrived in Panama in 1854 to work on the railroads. By the early 20th century, they had branched out to better employment; by that time the Chinese owned over 600 retail stores, and the Panamanians were dependent on Chinese imported goods. During the coming decades they faced sporadic discrimination, but they were better accepted starting in the 1980s.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There are fewer Hakka Chinese in Panama today as their businesses have been largely replaced by large chain retailers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most of the of the Hakka Chinese in Panama are non-religious. However, there are Christians among them, usually Roman Catholic or Evangelical.

What Are Their Needs?

Hakka Chinese people in Panama need the chance to hear that Jesus Christ offers life to the full for those who will submit to his lordship.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Hakka to have receptive hearts to the things of Christ.

Pray for Hakka church planters to train others to plant more churches and make disciples.

Pray for the Hakka Chinese in Panama to become a strong mission force among unreached Chinese groups around the world.