Nyishi in India

Introduction / History

Nyishis is the name of a tribe and their language. They live in Arunachal Pradesh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Nyishis are slash-and-burn farmers, who eak out a living by growing rice and other basics on hilly, rocky soil. They supplement their food supply by hunting and fishing. They earn their money by making and selling handmade goods. Men make baskets and metal tools while the women produce woven goods for the market.

Their most prominent festival is Nyokum Yullo. They ask for blessings from the spirits during that festival. They enjoy music, dance, and feasting. During that time, they drink opo, a homemade beer.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their traditional religion involves veneration of the sun, the moon, and ancestral spirits. Nearly two-thirds identify as Christian. They have a complete Bible and numerous biblical materials.

What Are Their Needs?

Nyishis live in a part of India where arable land is scarce. They need to find other ways to earn a living. That will involve getting an education for urban, modern employment.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to show them the way to new, sustainable employment.
Pray against nominalism, for spiritual renewal, and a genuine encounter with the Lord Jesus.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move Nyishi churches to take Christ to the lost in their region, including Tibetan Buddhists.
Pray for them to have easy access to gospel materials that they can use to share Christ with those who live in spiritual darkness.

Text Source:   Joshua Project