Kamayura in Brazil

Introduction / History

The Kamayurá are an Indigenous people living in the Alto Xingu region of Mato Grosso, Brazil. They were drastically affected by epidemics but have since recovered their population.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Kamayura villages are structured with sapê-covered houses arranged in a circle around a central plaza, where the men meet to play the flutes, smoke, and talk about their days, and organize groups. They rely heavily on farming: men cultivate gardens, while women process manioc and make beiju, the staple cassava flatbread. Hunting, fishing, and collecting wild fruits, berries, and honey supplement their diet. They trade bows and arrows, snail-shell belts, pottery, fishing nets, canoes, flutes, and hammocks with other tribes. They are skilled artisans, and their crafts are well known, especially their decorative pieces such as bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They have their own beliefs, with highly respected myths and rituals. The Christian presence among them is small.

What Are Their Needs?

Kamayuras could greatly benefit from additional support for education and health.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will reveal himself to them in the midst of their search for other spiritual forces.Pray for God to provide for their spiritual and physical needs according to his great mercy.Pray for open, humble hearts that will embrace Christ and share him with others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project