Satere-Mawe in Brazil
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| People Name: | Satere-Mawe |
| Country: | Brazil |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 16,000 |
| World Population: | 16,000 |
| Primary Language: | Satere-Mawe |
| Primary Religion: | Ethnic Religions |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.50 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.40 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South American Indigenous |
| Affinity Bloc: | Latin-Caribbean Americans |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Satere means caterpillar of fire, and Mawe means intelligent and curious parrot. The Satere-Mawe language is in the Tupian family of languages. Most also speak Portuguese. They live on the border of the States of Amazonas and Par .
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Satere-Mawe were the first people to cultivate the stimulant, guarana. They ceremoniously make it into a beverage that they drink in large quantities.
In order for a boy to become a warrior, he must go through an excruciating initiation. They put a glove on him filled with unconscious bullet ants. When they become conscious, they begin biting the boy. He must endure this for 10 minutes. His arm will be temporarily paralyzed. The pain is intense, and he will shake and hallucinate for the next couple of days. He will be expected to endure this ordeal 20 times over the course of several months.
Satere-Mawe villages are organized by extended families, including three generations.
They grow their food, including pumpkins, yams, cassava and sweet potatoes.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Satere-Mawes are ethnic religionists. They attribute great power to the Porantim, a piece of wood. They believe the Porantim has magical powers, and it can help them foresee the future. Their faith is in the spirit world. Few are Christians of any stripe.
What Are Their Needs?
The Satere-Mawes need a revelation from the Lord. This might come to them through dreams and visions, or God might send Christ followers to their settlements.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Lord to reveal himself to Satere-Mawe elders and family leaders.
Pray that family leaders will soon disciple their extended family members.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to guard, protect and enhance Satere-Mawe culture.