Introduction / History

The Rongga language is spoken in central Flores, part of the East Nusa Tenggara Province in Indonesia. It belongs to the Austronesian language family, specifically the Malayo-Polynesian branch. Rongga is closely related to the Ngadha and Lio languages, which are also part of the Central Flores subgroup. It is primarily spoken in the towns of Komba, Bamo, Tanarata and Watunggene in the East Manggarai Regency. This language is endangered since only a couple of thousand people still speak it.

The Rongga people use a specific form of ritual language known as Mbasa Wini. This language is characterized by its poetic and rhythmic structure, which carries significant socio-cultural values and ethnic knowledge. The mastery of Mbasa Wini is associated with social status and power within the community, highlighting the interplay between language and traditional authority.

What Are Their Lives Like?

One of the most significant cultural practices is the Vera ritual dance, which is accompanied by singing. This dance is unique to the Rongga people and is considered a vital part of their cultural identity. However, it faces challenges in maintaining its appeal among the younger generation, reflecting broader struggles to preserve traditional practices in modern times. In a generation or two, it is likely their language will be replaced by more widespread languages in Indonesia.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Rongga people are predominantly Sunni Muslim. Their form of Islam is compromised by traditional religion which emphasizes the role of the spirit world in their daily lives. Like most peoples of Indonesia the Rongga people depend on shamans (called dukans) to deal with an oppressive spirit world.

There are Christians among them, but they are also in danger of being oppressed by the spirits as well.

What Are Their Needs?

The Rongga people need freedom in Christ, which will give them victory over the spirit world. They need faith in God alone. They need to put their identity in a firm foundation of being in Christ’s family rather than their ethnicity.

Prayer Items

Pray that believers would settle among this people group and share the ways of the savior with them.
Pray for all Christians in this location to learn to grow more in love for one another as a testimony of Christ’s goodness.
Pray for grace and truth to be instilled in their hearts.

Scripture Prayers for the Rongga in Indonesia.

References

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