SEMELAI OF MALAYSIA

Semelai of Malaysia Semelai is literally translated, "man of the land." Archaeological evidence has shown that the Semelai have been natives of the land for more than 600 years. Apart from hunting and fishing, the Semelai also cultivate crops and collect jungle produce.The Semelai have a rich tradition of oral histories, folklore, and mythology. Story telling has long been an important genre of expression in Semelai culture. Numerous taboos govern the lives of the Semelai who believe in the existence of ghosts and spiritual beings. As in other Orang Asli cultures, dreaming is an important means of divination. Different kinds of people, spirits, or animals appearing in dreams have different cultural interpretations. Ministry Obstacles No scripture or other resources are reported in the Semelai language. The Gospel of Christ needs to come to them in oral form. Outreach Ideas The Semelai have a tradition of story telling. Pray that workers trained in telling stories from scripture will be led by God's Spirit to these people. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray the Christians among the Semelai will be sent teachers to instruct them in the ways of God, so they will grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. They need helpers so they will understand and apply the truths of scripture. Pray for the entire people group The Semelai people are fortunate to find a safe haven in the wetland sanctuary of Lake Bera. However, they need to adjust to their new surrounding. Scripture Focus "Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; and let them say among the nations, 'The Lord reigns.'" 1 Chronicles 16:31		People Name: Semelai Country: Malaysia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 4,400 World Population: 4,400 Language: Semelai Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: No Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2