Because they do not have a written language, Miao history is handed down by word of mouth and through songs. Miao legend tells how human life originated when a maple tree metamorphosed into a butterfly. The butterfly then laid twelve eggs from which hatched Jiangyang, the ancestor of the Miao. The other eggs hatched, giving birth to Thunder, Centipede, Dragon, Elephant, Tiger, Snake, Rooster, Dog, Fish, and Water Buffalo.

Central Huishui is one of four Huishui Miao languages. They, in turn, are considered part of the official Miao nationality by the Chinese government.

The lives of most Miao people in China have become more complicated in recent years as China's economic condition has improved. Today, a prospective partner for marriage is often required to own a cell phone, television, radio, and motorbike before being considered marriageable.

Most Central Huishui Miao are animists, living in fear of a host of different demons and deities. Miao shamans and sorcerers possess great demonic power. An early missionary described his experiences: "As a rule I don't believe in devils but these wizards seem to have communications with a whole world of demons." He went on to describe some of the supernatural things done by these men, such as putting white hot chains around their necks without being harmed.

There are small numbers of indigenous Miao and ethnically mixed Christian fellowships in the Central Huishui Miao region. Few of the Central Huishui Miao are Christians, although most members of this group have yet to receive an adequate presentation of the gospel. The Miao language used for the JESUS Film is not understood by the Central Huishui Miao. They are relatively open to change, but few evangelists or missionaries have ever specifically focused on the Central Huishui Miao.

Without the guidance of Christ, these people are like sheep without a shepherd. They need the good shepherd in their families and communities.

* Scripture Prayers for the Miao, Huishui Central in China.

Pray for the authority of Christ to bind hindering spiritual forces to lead them from darkness to light.

Pray for signs and wonders to happen among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.

Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.

Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.

Operation China, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted © Used with permission