Saiset in Taiwan
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| People Name: | Saiset |
| Country: | Taiwan |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 6,300 |
| World Population: | 6,300 |
| Primary Language: | Saisiyat |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 68.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 11.00 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Taiwan Indigenous |
| Affinity Bloc: | East Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Saiset, also known as the Saisiyat, are one of Taiwan’s smallest indigenous groups. They speak the Saisiyat language, which belongs to the Austronesian language family. Historically, they have also used Atayal, Mandarin, Hokkien, and Hakka in daily life.The Saiset inhabit the mountainous regions of western Taiwan, particularly in Miaoli County (Nanzhuang Township) and Hsinchu County (Wufong Township). They are divided into northern and southern branches, each with its own dialect. Their history includes tragic encounters with the Kingdom of Tungning, resulting in significant losses of land and population. The first indigenous victim of Taiwan’s White Terror period was a Saiset man named Jih Chin-chun, executed in 1952.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Saiset live in rural mountain communities where traditional practices and modern Taiwanese life intersect. Agriculture and forestry are common livelihoods, and their cultural identity is preserved through festivals, oral traditions, and crafts. One of their most important cultural events is the Pas-ta’ai ceremony, held every two years to honor ancestral spirits and maintain harmony with the supernatural world.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Saiset practice a blend of Christianity and animism. Approximately 68% identify as Christian, with 11% being evangelical. However, many still observe traditional animistic rituals, especially during the Pas-ta’ai festival. Their mythology includes a flood narrative and creation story involving a god named Otspoehobong, who created humans from the flesh, bones, and intestines of a flood survivor.
What Are Their Needs?
While many identify as Christian, there is a need for deeper discipleship and biblical understanding. Rural isolation limits access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.Maintaining traditional practices like Pas-ta’ai is vital for identity but requires community support and recognition.
Prayer Points
Ask God to raise up mature Christian leaders among the Saiset, who can disciple others and lead with wisdom and humility.Pray for economic opportunities and infrastructure development in Saiset communities, especially in remote mountain areas.Intercede for spiritual renewal, that those who identify as Christian would grow in faith and biblical understanding.