Nuaulu, South in Indonesia

Introduction / History

The South Nuaulu are a Melanesian people who live in the jungles of the island of Seram in Maluku, Indonesia. They can be found primarily in the villages (desas) of Sepa and Nuanea. They speak an Austronesian language known as Patakai. The name Nuaula means "headwaters of the Nua River," a river in their original homeland – the interior mountains of Seram Island.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The South Nuaulu are subsistence farmers who also grow cash crops such as cloves, nutmeg, cacao, and coconuts. They also forage for food, and hunt wild pigs, deer, and cuscus (a marsupial) in the jungle. Hunting trips might last a week.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Nuaulus practice ancestor worship and make sacrifices for hunting success. They also believe their ancestors manifest as certain animals and will therefore not harm particular species. Most believe that the ancestors and other spirits control their daily lives. They must obey the traditions handed down by the ancestors. These include ceremonies surrounding birth and puberty initiation rites.

What Are Their Needs?

Most of the South Nuaulu do not have formal jobs. Some of the younger Nuaulu find work in nearby towns in construction, logging, or plantation labor. They continue to rely on spiritual healers for many of their medical needs. They also have few educational opportunities. Children are often bused to nearby towns to attend school.

Prayer Points

Pray for the South Nuaulu to have the opportunity to hear the gospel and respond to God's invitation to relationship.
Pray for the Lord to reveal his victory over darkness and set them free from their fear of spirits.
Pray for the church to be established and for many of the South Nuaulu to become disciples of Jesus who make disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project