Tiwi in Australia

Introduction / History

The Tiwi people live on the Tiwi Islands, north of Darwin in northern Australia. There are two main islands: Bathurst and Melville. The Tiwi have lived there for thousands of years. Their name means “we, the people.” They have a strong culture that is different from mainland Aboriginal groups.

Their traditional language is called Tiwi. It is still spoken today, especially by older people and in ceremonies.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many Tiwi people live in small towns on the islands. Some work in schools, art centers, health clinics, or land management. Others fish or hunt for food. Art is very important to the Tiwi. They make paintings, carvings, and fabrics that are sold around the world.

Soccer is a big part of life on the Tiwi Islands. Most people play, watch, or cheer for soccer. The Tiwi Islands Football League has helped many young men become strong leaders, and some have gone on to play professionally. Soccer brings families and communities together and is a big part of Tiwi pride.

Families are large and close. Children are taught by their parents, grandparents, uncles, and aunts. Some children speak both English and Tiwi. School attendance has been a challenge in some places, but the community is working hard to improve education.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Tiwis have their own ancient spiritual beliefs. They believe in creation beings and spirits that care for the land and sea. Ceremonies, songs, and dance are part of their spiritual life.

Some Tiwis also follow Christianity. The good news of Jesus is available in both traditional Tiwi and modern Tiwi. Bible stories about Jesus and Abraham have been translated and are available in text. Much more is needed.

What Are Their Needs?

Some Tiwis have heard about Jesus, but many still need help to understand the Bible in their heart language fully. Ongoing support to translate and share God’s word in Tiwi is important.

Tiwis need more job opportunities, better school attendance, and stronger health services. Young people especially need support to stay in school and feel hopeful about the future.

Prayer Points

Give thanks for the strong cultural identity of the Tiwi people. Their prowess on the soccer field, the global success of their art, and the preservation of their language in writing have all contributed to their sense of pride as a community.
Give thanks for the presence of the Catholic Church in the Tiwi Islands. Pray that the Catholic church and any other churches in the Tiwi Islands continue to clearly present the good news of Jesus Christ and effectively help the Tiwi people to follow Jesus.
Give thanks for the work of Jenny Lee and Marie Godfrey, who gave their lives to commit the Tiwi language to writing.
Pray that the rest of the Bible will be translated for Tiwi speakers. Pray that they would meditate on God’s word day and night and be transformed by the renewing of their minds.
Ask God to raise up workers from among the Tiwi who faithfully and effectively lead the work of Bible translation for the Tiwi people.
Pray for much better education and health services in the Tiwi Islands.

Text Source:   Joshua Project