Western Khampa in China

The language of the Western Khampa of China cannot be understood by speakers of the Central Tibetan languages or the Amdo Tibetan. Despite living in a huge area approximately the size of England, only two dialects are reported within the Western Khampa language. For centuries the Khampa terrorized other Tibetans. The Khampa men traditionally wear long-sleeved coats tied up with a belt, which conceals a large knife or sword. They travel by horseback and are never without a weapon. Many wear lucky charms, magical strings or amulet boxes around their neck. Polyandry (the practice of brothers sharing the same wife) still occurs in some places. Life expectancy for Khampa living in the harsh plateau environment averages only about 45 years.

Ministry Obstacles

The Western Khampa are the epitome of an unreached people group. Efforts to reach them in the past have seen little or no results.

Scripture Focus

"For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried."  Psalm 66:10

Scripture Prayer

Pray for the Lord to test and purify today’s people group.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the Lord to reveal himself to Western Khampa families, calling people into relationship. Pray for loving, anointed workers. Pray for the hearts of the Western Khampa to be drawn to the Lord of lords. Pray for a church planting movement to thrive in their communities. Pray for the Western Khampa to encounter the JESUS Film and other gospel materials in their language.