Naheng in China

People Name:	Naheng
Country:	China
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	1,500
World Population:	1,500
Primary Language:	Naxi
Primary Religion:	Ethnic Religions
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Tibeto-Burman, other
Affinity Bloc:	Tibetan-Himalayan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Naheng language suggests they were once part of the larger Mosuo group. For an unknown reason the Naheng separated from the main body of Mosuo at Lugu Lake and migrated southeast to their present location. Today the marked differences between the Mosuo and Naheng mean that the two groups no longer acknowledge historical kinship. The main difference, however, is that, whereas the Mosuo are zealous proponents of Tibetan Buddhism, the majority of Naheng are animists.

Although the Chinese authorities officially include the Naheng as part of the Naxi nationality, the Naheng have their own name, speak a distinct language, and view themselves differently from other communities. The Naheng may have originally been part of the Mosuo and Naru groups, but centuries of separation have caused them to possess a distinct ethnicity today.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Naheng villages consist of closely clustered log homes that are surrounded by a courtyard and gate. The Naheng are hardworking agriculturists. Wheat, maize, and legumes are the primary crops grown. Some families also grow potatoes and turnips. Except for poultry and pigs, they do not herd livestock. The Naheng were once a matriarchal society. Today their families are monogamous.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Naheng live just south of the influence of Tibetan Buddhism in China and just north of the influence of the traditional Naxi religion of Dongbaism. Dongbaism is a mixture of shamanism and the pre-Buddhist Tibetan religion of Bon. Most Naheng today are animists and ancestor worshipers, although they also have a legend of a god of creation.

Living in one of the most gospel-neglected parts of southern China, the Naheng are an unreached people group with practically no knowledge at all of Jesus Christ. The nearest believers to the Naheng are probably the Eastern Lipo farther east, but the Naheng have so far been outside the range of their evangelistic efforts.

What Are Their Needs?

The Naheng people have few if any opportunities to experience the abundant life that comes from fellowship with the King of kings. Who will go to them?

Prayer Points

Pray the Naheng turn from animism and spirits to seek the Creator. Pray they become open to evangelism by Christians among the eastern Lipo or other groups.
Pray for signs and wonders to happen among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.
Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.