Otomi, Sierra Oriental in Mexico

Introduction / History

The Otomi speakers of southern Mexico share their mountain homeland in close proximity with three other cultural communities. This arrangement started in the 17th century when Spanish governors gathered small, scattered populations together "within the sound of the bell," to give administrators and missionaries better control over the indigenous populations.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Across hillside fields, Sierra Oriental Otomi families plant maize, beans, and chili peppers they will eat. People also raise coffee or sugar cane as cash crops. Though some keep domestic fowl for personal use, they do not typically raise any livestock. And today, many migrate to cities for better jobs.

Several Otomi villages produce colorful, decorative clothing. Women still typically wear dresses and blouses with this embroidery. They also sell their stitchery, varying in size and intricacy, from small napkins and blouses to large bedspreads.

People have learned to make paper from the bark of several specific fig tree varieties. Local painters covet this bark paper called "amate" for their art. Talented Otomi also design jewelry, beads, and small bags.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In their largest town, as many as 70 percent of the residents may claim they are Christians. And in the wider region, it's about 20 percent. Despite those positive numbers, most Otomi believers also venerate the spirit world.

What Are Their Needs?

Many have not learned that the one, true God of the Bible has ultimate authority in both the natural and the spirit. They need work of the Holy Spirit to reveal to them who Jesus is.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to give the Sierra Oriental Otomi people an abundant harvest as a testimony of his power and goodness.
Pray for Sierra Oriental Otomi Christian believers to lead others towards a Christ-oriented spirituality.
Pray for disciples who will make more disciples who will make even more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project