Sema in India
Photo Source:
Anonymous
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Sema |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 248,000 |
| World Population: | 248,000 |
| Primary Language: | Naga, Sumi |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 99.31 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Tribal - Naga |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Sema is a Naga tribe that speak Sumi. Because of their language, some know them as Sumi rather than Sema.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Semas have always been subsistence farmers, but today, some work for the government, in schools, or in business, especially in urban centers like Dimapur and Zünheboto. Women augment the family income by making and selling woven crafts.
Their families have a strong clan system that influences marriage and inheritance, which goes through the father’s family line. Families can be either nuclear or extended.
Sema social life revolves around church activities, and festivals. They enjoy folk dancing, music (especially church choral singing), soccer, and wrestling. Sports, particularly football and wrestling. Storytelling preserves their culture and traditions. Some of their festivals have to do with the agricultural cycle, while others are Christian-based.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Semas have been Baptists since the early 20th century, and churches provide education and social services.
What Are Their Needs?
While some Semas have prospered, others in rural areas still struggle with access to quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Prayer Points
Pray for revival fire to empower Sema families and churches to serve the Lord with all their hearts, souls, and minds.
Pray that the Lord will thrust out many Semas as his ambassadors to nearby Tibetan Buddhist peoples.
Pray for their families and churches to be defined by love for the Lord and their neighbors.
Pray for the power and fruit of the Holy Spirit to define Sema churches, drawing others to Christ.