THE TAMANG

Since 1957, RHCC committed to sharing the Gospel around the globe and support those who are doing the same. This year, in addition to supporting our missionaries, we are also adopting the Tamang people group of Nepal.

As part of this effort, we are providing a scholarship for N* to receive pastoral training with our ministry partner A3. N*, a former Buddhist Lama, is ministering to the Tamang people in the Rasuwa district of northeastern Nepal and has planted three churches among this unreached people group. His unique cultural and religious background as a Lama have opened doors to share the Gospel in profound ways.

*Name and photo are withheld due the sensitive area he is serving in.

THE TAMANG PEOPLE

About the Tamang People

Flag of Nepal

Introduction / History
The name Tamang means "horse trader." They were involved with a long war with their rivals, the Gurkhas, who eventually defeated them. The Tamangs once had forced labor obligations. Most of the Tamang live in Nepal or India, but there are smaller numbers of them in Bangladesh and Bhutan. The Tamang are the largest indigenous people group in Nepal at 1,768,000 (5.6% of the country’s 29 million inhabitants).

What Are Their Lives Like?
They are generally very poor, yet they enjoy festivals, music and cultural events. They have their own song and dance style called Tamang Selo. These songs can be about sorrow, humor, joy or satire. Their main festival is Sonam Lhochhar. It welcomes the new year in February or March.

What Are Their Beliefs?
Over 80% of Tamang follow Tibetan Buddhism but mixed heavily with animism and to a lesser extent, with Hinduism. Their priests, or lamas, have a dominant role in the community and perform ceremonies for funerals, etc. Perhaps the most powerful person in society, however, is the shaman, who exorcises demons and interacts with the spirit world.

How You Can Pray:

That God would break through the religious and cultural barriers of the Tamang people, so they can hear the Gospel.
That God would raise up disciples that will multiply disciples.
For encouragement and energy for N* and his wife as they work in a difficult environment.

Source Joshua Project