Matses in Brazil

Introduction / History

The Matses are a tribe of Peru and Brazil in the Amazon. They speak Matses and Spanish and Portuguese is also spoken. They live between the Javari and Galvez rivers. Many live in the Matses Indigenous Reserve. They were first to contact the outside world when SIL missionaries came to them in the late 1960s. Matses means 'people' in their language. They are also called Mayoruna.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Matses know about animal and plant life where they are and rely on this in the forests. They hunt with bows and arrows. They hunt and sell meat to help them earn a living.

At the present time, they are having problems with poachers and illegal logging. Their living conditions have gotten worse, and they could become extinct.

The Matses practice polygamy and like cross-cousin marriages. There was conflict between them and the Peruvian government, but they are at peace with them now. Each village has its own chief.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their religion is animistic; they worship human and animal spirits. There is also a Roman Catholic influence in their spirituality.

What Are Their Needs?

They have difficulty getting medicines. Maybe Christian medical staff could help them in this area.

Prayer Points

Pray that the contact they had with SIL missionaries in the past will help bring the Matses to Jesus Christ.
Pray that the troubles they are having will lead them to salvation.
Pray that the Matses will not become extinct, but will flourish as a people.

Text Source:   Joshua Project