Tikopia in Solomon Islands

Tikopia
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People Name: Tikopia
Country: Solomon Islands
10/40 Window: No
Population: 6,800
World Population: 6,800
Primary Language: Tikopia
Primary Religion: Christianity
Christian Adherents: 98.00 %
Evangelicals: 17.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Polynesian
Affinity Bloc: Pacific Islanders
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Tikopia is a volcanic island in Temotu Province of the Solomon Islands. The people are culturally Polynesian, and their language, Tikopia, is a member of the Samoic branch of Polynesian languages.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Although they are mostly farmers, their agricultural practices are unusual. There is a small carrying capacity for human population, so they killed off all wild pigs because they eat food that humans also want. Instead, their protein source comes from the sea. Fishing is important on Tikopia.

What Are Their Beliefs?

It took until the 1950s before all identified as Christian, mostly Anglican. They had pre-existing gods and spirit beings which they gave homage to. Some still practice their ancient religion, which involves a sky god and a god of creation.

What Are Their Needs?

Tikopia is a low-lying island; it is vulnerable to sea rising from climate change.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Tikopias to find effective ways to protect their home island from natural disasters.
Pray for the faithful translation and wide distribution of the scriptures, evangelism materials, and discipleship resources in the Tikopia language.
Pray for revival fire to consume their churches, driving them to take Christ to Asian countries.

Text Source:   Joshua Project