Tajio, Kasimbar in Indonesia

Introduction / History

The Tajio people of Indonesia are primarily found in the central part of the island of Sulawesi in the Ampibabo, Tinombo, and Sindue subdistricts. Their folklore claims their ancestry can be traced back to the Tomanurung – beings who descended from the heavens. The first male Tajio (Taoibagis) was said to have been born inside a sugar palm tree.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Tajio speak the Tajio language. They live along the coast, growing rice, copra, cocoa, and rattan. Their daily diet consists mainly of rice and small fish. The region they inhabit in Sulawesi is accessible by roads that are generally in good condition.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Over three-fourths of the Tajios are Sunni Muslims. Although the arrival of Islam had a huge impact on the Tajio society, they continued to engage in animistic customs and rituals. They pray five times each day, in accordance with Islamic rules, but also are careful to acknowledge and appease the spirits they believe inhabit nature.

What Are Their Needs?

Most of the Tajio are trapped in a cycle of poverty. Their access to education and jobs is limited – as is their access to Scripture. Only portions of the Bible are available in their language.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Tajio to hear and receive the gospel.
Pray for them to be set free from bondage to the spirit world and solely lean on the power of Christ.
Pray for disciples to be made, churches planted, and for the Tajio to become a missionary force to their surrounding neighbors.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in their families and to draw hundreds to Christ in their mosques.

Text Source:   Joshua Project