Osage in United States

Introduction / History

The name of this people group means "calm water," but the Osage refer to themselves as Niukonska – "People of the Middle Waters." They are believed to have originated in the Great Plains, in the Mississippi River valley. The Osage have been described as being tall, fierce, and courageous. They historically engaged in hunting, gathering, and farming.

Today, the Osage reside primarily in Oklahoma. However, only a small percentage live on the Osage Nation Reservation.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The tribe has a government in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, that is comprised of judicial, executive, and legislative branches. The Osage have a tribal college, school districts, and own a variety of businesses, as well as a casino. While many engage in modern agricultural jobs and in menial labor, they continue to maintain their traditions through ceremonies and tribal gatherings.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Osage believe in a supreme being called Wakonda and think the spirit of Wakonda resides in all things – the sun, moon, earth, sky, trees, animals, etc. According to their oral tradition, the People of the Sky merged with the People of the Earth to form the Osage – the Children of the Middle Waters. Osage life was once centered on rituals involving pipes in which tobacco was burned to enlist Wakonda's assistance. Shamans and animistic priests led most ceremonies.

What Are Their Needs?

As one website notes, Osage history is "full of hardship and sorrow." The Osage continue to face issues of both economic and spiritual poverty.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to reveal to the Osage their value as children of God.
Ask the Lord to send compassionate workers who will invest in this people group, preaching and demonstrating the love of God.
Pray that soon, Osege disciples will be discipling the nations.

Text Source:   Joshua Project