Baihong in China

People Name:	Baihong
Country:	China
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	247,000
World Population:	247,000
Primary Language:	Honi
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	2.80 %
Evangelicals:	2.70 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Hani
Affinity Bloc:	Tibetan-Himalayan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Baihong belong to a large group thought to have migrated from the Tibetan Plateau about 2,500 years ago. They are one of many people groups the Chinese government combined to form the Hani nationality. They were formerly known as the Mahei - which is the name they are listed under in most mission publications today.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Baihong women must wear something called “armor.” This consists of a foot-long piece of cloth decorated with silver balls. It is attached to their back and waves in the air, something like a tail. If a woman does not wear this armor in public, she is considered indecent.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Because Baihong youth have been educated in atheistic schools, most are not religious. Traditionally, however, the Baihong have been animists. They believe spirits dwell in trees, water, mountains, and the sky. They also believe that some of these spirits guard their villages, Bad spirits bring disease and suffering. This has led to a complex set of superstitions and beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

Some Baihong have heard the gospel from the neighboring Kado and Biyo, whose languages are related to the Baihong. As a result, there are a few Baihong Christians. But most live in remote communities and have yet to be visited by evangelists. The believers among the Baihong have encountered severe persecution from the local authorities, who are eager to stop the spread of Christianity. Gospel recordings were recently produced in the Baihong language for the first time.

Prayer Points

Pray for believers among other people groups to continue sharing the gospel with the Baihong.
Pray for Baihong Christians to be bold in living out their faith.
Pray for the growth of the church and for Baihong language recordings to be used for evangelism and teaching.