Tubalar in Russia

Introduction / History

The Tubalar people were once nomadic reindeer herders like many of the other small tribes in southern Siberia. Instead of using metal traps like the other people groups, the Tubalar people used "drop" style traps to catch their prey. They are closely related to the Tofalar people who live a similar lifestyle.

Eventually the Russian communists forced the Tubalar people to settle in villages where they became engaged in cooperative fur farming. Their traditional tents were replaced by wooden houses like the Russians used.

Where Are they Located?

There are very few of the Tubalar people left. The few who remain live in southern Siberia along the tributaries of the Katun and the Biya Rivers.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Sources usually consist of what the Tubalar people were doing decades ago. Most likely there are some of them still engaged with fur farming, but many are probably trying to adjust to an urban world that is foreign to them.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Tubalar people follow animistic and shamanistic practices. They seek to use the spiritual realm to obtain what they need.

What Are Their Needs?

This people group is dying out. They need to be given the education they need to be able to thrive in Russia's economy.

Prayer Points

Pray for Russian believers to take His gospel to the Tubalar people.
There are some believers among the related Tofalar people. Pray that they will reach out to the Tubalar people.
Pray that the Tubalar people will see the beauty of God's creation and seek the One who created it for our use.

Text Source:   Keith Carey