Amuzgo, Ipalapa in Mexico

Amuzgo, Ipalapa
Photo Source:  COMIMEX 
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People Name: Amuzgo, Ipalapa
Country: Mexico
10/40 Window: No
Population: 2,200
World Population: 2,200
Primary Language: Amuzgo, Ipalapa
Primary Religion: Christianity
Christian Adherents: 95.00 %
Evangelicals: 25.00 %
Scripture: Translation Needed
Ministry Resources: No
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Mixteco
Affinity Bloc: Latin-Caribbean Americans
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

There are three Amuzgo subgroups, each with a separate language. One of these is the Ipalapa Amuzgos. Their language is similar to the Mixtec languages; the two tribes intermingle in the states of Guerro and others. The two languages began to separate 3,000-4,000 years ago. Amuzgo languages were also influenced by several Náhuatl languages because of the Aztec Empire.

The arrival of the Spaniards pushed the Amuzgos further from the coastal regions into the less desirable mountains.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Amuzgos grow corn, beans, squash, tomatoes, and peppers, but they are better known for their beautiful hand-woven textile products and pottery. Ropes, nets, and hammocks are useful items. They supplement their diets with wild game and some fishing. Ipalapa Amuzgos live in round huts.

They widely practice godparent relationships. At birth, a child is given godparents, whom he offers respect and honor. They have kinship rituals that involve godparents.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Ipalapa Amuzgos are Roman Catholic, but they also have pre-Colombian rituals and folklore that dates back far before the Spanish conquest of Mexico. There is also a large Evangelical community among them that can be Christ’s ambassadors to indigenous peoples in Mexico.

What Are Their Needs?

Most indigenous peoples in Mexico need better medical care and educational opportunities.

Prayer Points

Pray that soon the Ipalapa Amuzgos will equip and send workers to less reached peoples in Mexico.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to do miracles in their churches, giving them a greater commitment to the King of kings.
Pray for the Lord to provide the hospitals and educational opportunities they need to thrive in the 21st century.

Text Source:   Joshua Project