Chin, Zo in Myanmar (Burma)

Introduction / History

Zotung people were believed to be settled in this land since the early 15th century escaping the torture and extortion of Burmese Kings and rulers while they were in plain areas of Kalay valley and Bagan Poppa area. Two main groups came and settled together and became Zotung. The first one was a group from Poppa and the group was led by Inmae families while other group was from Kalay valley, led by Razawk families. Another group who joined to settle was led by Tingpaw families. Other leading families were Khulae, Dawro, Luitua, Kheitu and Laeboi (Calthawng) families. Inmae and Tingpaw were believed to be entered from southern while all other families were from northern of Zotung land. Each Zotung villages were historically independent and ruled by their own vilage Chiefs. Sometimes the villages fight each other over land ownership and other social problems that made some Zotung peoples fled to neighbouring communities like Mara and Matu. In such way, Langle families become Matu and Azyu families become Mara now.

Where Are they Located?

Most of Zotung villages are in Matupi township , two villages in Hakha township, one village in Mindat township of Chin State and five villages in Gangaw township of Magway Region of Myanmar. There are 55 Zotung villages in total.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Zotung people are farmers who depend on slash and burn traditional farming system.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Early Zotungs were animist. Since 1933, Dr. Paw Khuaming preached the gospel and Christianity grew gradually. Now, almost all of Zotung people are Christians. Very few persons joined Budhism.

Prayer Points

Please pray for 1, Audio Bible in Zotung language 2, Zotung Churches to have registration for their religious buildings 3, Zotung gospel centenary to celebrate in 2033

Text Source:   Anonymous