Saami, Lule in Sweden
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| People Name: | Saami, Lule |
| Country: | Sweden |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 7,200 |
| World Population: | 9,100 |
| Primary Language: | Saami, Lule |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 94.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 5.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Finno-Ugric, Saami |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Lule Saami speak Lule Sámi (smj), a member of the Uralic language family, closely related to other Sámi languages. It is spoken in northern Sweden and Norway, particularly along the Lule River in Norrbotten County, including the municipalities of Gällivare and Jokkmokk. Lule Sámi is considered endangered.Historically, the Lule Saami were semi-nomadic reindeer herders, fishers, and hunters. Their language was used in religious contexts, with portions of the Bible and the New Testament translated into Lule Sámi between 1903 and 2003. Despite this, the language has not been fully passed on to younger generations, and Swedish is now dominant in most public and educational settings.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Lule Saami live in rural and mountainous areas, where many still engage in reindeer herding, though others work in tourism, education, and public service. Their communities are small and often bilingual, with Sámi spoken among elders and Swedish used in broader society. Cultural revitalization efforts include language education, craft traditions, and Sámi political representation.However, they face challenges such as land rights disputes, limited access to Sámi-language services, and social marginalization.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Lule Saami are predominantly Christian, with 94% identifying as Christian and 5% as evangelical. Christianity was introduced through missionary efforts, and the Sámi Bible translations played a role in spreading the faith. Historically, they practiced animism and shamanism, with beliefs in nature spirits and deities like Radienacca (Father God) and Beive (Sun goddess).Today, Christianity remains the dominant religion, though secularism and cultural spirituality are also present.
What Are Their Needs?
While many identify as Christian, there is a need for deeper engagement with Scripture and culturally relevant discipleship.Lule Sámi is endangered, and younger generations often lack fluency. Traditional practices, especially reindeer herding and oral storytelling, are at risk of being lost. They also need greater recognition and support for their rights, education, and representation.
Prayer Points
Pray for strong discipleship programs that help Lule Saami believers grow in faith and lead others with cultural sensitivity.Ask God to bless language revitalization efforts, especially among children and youth.Pray for healing from historical marginalization, that the Lule Saami would experience restoration and dignity.Intercede for spiritual renewal, that the gospel would be understood and embraced in ways that honor Sámi identity.Pray for the protection of traditional livelihoods, especially reindeer herding, from environmental and legal threats.