Samtao in Myanmar (Burma)

Introduction / History

The Samtao are said to be original members of the Wa people. The Samtao converted from animism to Theravada Buddhism. After generations of separation from the Wa animist, the Samtao emerged with their own language and culture. The Samtao language is related to other Mon-Khmer languages (De 'ang, Wa, and Bulang).The Samtao of Myanmar are from three tribes; the Samtao, Samtuan, and Sen Chun.

Where Are they Located?

The Samtao live in Laos, Myanmar, and China. Myanmar is the home to the largest concentration of Samtao. They are found mainly in the eastern Shan hills northeast of Kengtung.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Samtao families may be monogamous or polygamous. To become a polygamous family, the husband must first receive permission from the village leader. In some Samtao families infant marriage is arranged. The Samtao grow crops such as tea, maize, rice, cotton, and sugarcane. The Samatao men often tattoo their limbs and torsos with passages from the Buddhist scriptures.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Samtao practice Theravada Buddhism. It was introduced to their culture 900 years ago. The Samtao are ardent followers of Buddhism. They also revere the spirits of the forest, village, and house, and observe animal rituals. For instance, when a Samtao man dies his family will kill a chicken to call back the person's soul. The person is then redressed and positioned between two white sheets.

Prayer Points

Pray that even now the Spirit would work in Samtao hearts.
Pray that God would raise up missionaries from neighboring tribes to go to the Samtao.
Pray that the Gospel would reach the Samtao and that it would be received.
Pray that a Samtao church would be birthed.

Text Source:   Rachel Routt