Tay Sa Pa in Vietnam

Introduction / History

There are well over a million Tay people, but only about 400 of them are from the Sa Pa subgroup. The ancestors of the Tay peoples migrated south from China to escape the clutches of advancing Mongol armies in the 1200s. From their homes, which were in today's Vietnam, the Tay people were unwilling to submit to a Hmong king. For 12 years the Hmong attacked and burned Tay villages. Many fled to escape the reach of the Hmongs.

In the past all Tay subgroups have been noted for their skills as hunters. They used cages, traps and arrows to catch their prey. Only those in very remote areas today still hunt since hunting is unsustainable in their environment.

Where Are they Located?

The Sa Pa Tay people all live in Vietnam.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though they were once skilled hunters, most Sa Pa Tay people are now farmers. Because of the horrible carnage on their villages in the past, some Sa Pa villages use hedges and ditches to keep outsiders out.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Ancestor worship is the primary religion of the Sa Pa Tay people. They keep ancestral altars inside their homes. Guests cannot sit in front of these altars, and women who have recently given birth are not allowed to look at them, because this would disgrace the ancestors.

What Are Their Needs?

The Sa Pa Tay people need to look to Christ for their security.

Prayer Points

There are no believers among the Sa Pa Tay people. Pray this will soon change.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move in their communities in such a way that there is spiritual openness to Jesus Christ.
Pray for a fellowship of believers to emerge which will include this people group.
Pray for a disciple making movement.

Text Source:   Keith Carey