The Tule people, also known as Kuna, Cuna, or Gunadule, are an indigenous group residing in northwestern Colombia, primarily in the departments of Chocó and Antioquia, near the Darién region bordering Panama. Their language, Cuna, belongs to the Chibchan language family and includes two dialects: one for daily use and another ceremonial variant used in rituals and communal gatherings.
Historically, the Tule were among the first indigenous groups encountered by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. They resisted colonization and played a significant role in regional trade, particularly in cacao and animal skins. Over time, they faced displacement due to colonization, resource exploitation, and armed conflict.
The Tule live in small, forested communities surrounded by rich biodiversity. Their homes are typically made of wooden planks and palm roofs, and they maintain communal spaces for gatherings and education. Despite their resilience, the Tule have faced violence, displacement, and threats from armed groups, particularly since the early 2000s. These groups have disrupted their peaceful existence, leading to massacres, intimidation, and forced migration.
The Tule continue to protect their ancestral lands, which span over 2,350 hectares, and have successfully reclaimed portions through legal restitution. Their communities rely on subsistence agriculture, forest resources, and traditional crafts, and they remain committed to preserving their cultural identity and environment.
The Tule have a spiritual worldview centered around Paptumat, the creator of the world and its twelve layers. Their religious system includes three types of shamans: those trained in healing, those who receive supernatural messages, and those who specialize in curing epidemics. While some Tule have adopted elements of Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism, many continue to practice ethnic religions rooted in their ancestral beliefs. Nearly half identify as Christian, with a small Evangelical minority. Syncretism is common, blending traditional beliefs with Christian elements.
Protection of ancestral lands and cultural autonomy is vital. Armed conflict and illegal resource exploitation continue to threaten their territory and way of life.
Access to education and healthcare remains limited. Many Tule communities lack safe and consistent access to schools and medical services, especially for children and women.
Pray for spiritual awakening and discipleship among the Tule, that their faith may grow deep and be rooted in biblical truth.
Ask God to raise up indigenous leaders who will share the gospel in culturally sensitive ways.
Intercede for peace and protection for Tule communities facing violence and displacement.
Pray for the preservation of their language and traditions, that these may serve as bridges for sharing the gospel.
Scripture Prayers for the Tule in Colombia.
UNHCR – Colombia's Indigenous Tule People
ONIC – Tule Cuna Profile
Todo Colombia – Tule Indigenous Group
New York Times – Drug Battle Spells Extinction
BnB Colombia – Guna/Tule Mystique
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
