Chontal, Tabasco in Mexico

Introduction / History

Chontals speak languages from the Tequistlateco-Chontal family. For this reason they are also known as Tequistlateco. Chontals in Oaxaca are linguistically and ethnically different from the Chontal of Tabasco, who speak a Mayan language. The similarity of names is because the more powerful Nahuatl speakers use it as a generic term. They are referred to as the Tabasco Chontals.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Tabasco Chontals live in circular-shaped houses with walls made from mud or adobe. Their high ceilings are shaped like cones and made from straw and palm fronds. Their beds are made from reeds. Benches are made from logs. Some kitchens have a high adobe platform or a partition to set it apart from the rest of the house. They make use of clay for pots and dishes and items made from wood or plastic.

Often, grandparents and siblings build homes near one another; they live in extended families. Families are patriarchal, with men having most decision-making power. Tabasco Chontals elders are called upon for their advice because of their life experiences. Everyone must help with communal chores that benefit the entire community.

Though they are also famous for their beautiful hand-made goods, they sustain themselves through agriculture and livestock herding. Farmers grow corn, beans, squash, and orchard fruits. They extend their food source through hunting and fishing.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they are officially Roman Catholic, Tabasco Chontals also worship ancestral spirits. The moon, the sun, stars, fire, air, and water were created by the Great Spirit. Some participate in witchcraft, which is frowned upon in Chontal society. There are festivals for their patron saint, but others are for the holy departed, Christmas, Easter, and the holy cross.

Tabasco Chontals are about half Evangelical. They have a New Testament in their language, along with audio Bible tools.

What Are Their Needs?

They need the willingness to spread the name of Jesus Christ to those who put their faith in anything less than the King of kings.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to show himself powerful and loving by blessing them with a record-high corn harvest.
Pray for them to put all their faith in Jesus Christ, and for them to watch in amazement as he blesses them in every way.
Pray that soon Tabasco Chontals disciples will make disciples among indigenous people with less of a gospel witness.
Pray for Tabasco Chontal husbands to love their wives and refrain from drinking if that’s what is needed for the good of their families.

Text Source:   Joshua Project