Introduction / History

The Rampi, also known as Leboni, live in the mountainous region of South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Their language, Rampi, belongs to the Austronesian family and is spoken alongside Indonesian, which is used for education and trade.

Historically, the Rampi were isolated due to rugged terrain, which preserved their language and cultural traditions. Contact with outside groups increased during the colonial era, bringing Christianity and modern influences, but traditional customs remain strong in daily life.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Rampi live in small villages scattered across steep hillsides. Their livelihood depends on farming rice, maize, and vegetables, along with raising livestock such as pigs and chickens. Their diet consists of rice, root crops, and meat from livestock.

Families are close-knit, and extended relatives often live nearby, sharing labor and resources. Community life includes traditional festivals marked by music, dance, and rituals tied to agricultural cycles. Access to healthcare and education is limited, and many households depend on subsistence living.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Rampi identify as Christian, primarily Protestant, due to missionary influence during the colonial period. However, traditional animistic practices persist, including reverence for ancestral spirits and nature-related rituals. Syncretism is common, where biblical faith coexists with cultural traditions. While churches exist, many believers lack deep discipleship and access to Scripture in their heart language, leaving spiritual growth incomplete.

What Are Their Needs?

Healthcare and clean water are scarce in rural Rampi communities, and economic opportunities are limited. Education quality varies, and many young people migrate for work, weakening family and community ties.

Prayer Items

Pray that Rampi families will experience improved health and access to clean water.
Ask God to send workers who will teach the gospel clearly and disciple new believers in the Rampi language.
Pray for the translation and distribution of the Bible and Christian materials so that the Rampi can understand and apply God's word.
Intercede for Rampi believers to grow in faith and join the global discipleship movement, bringing the light of Christ to communities that need the hope of Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Leboni, Rampi in Indonesia.

References

Ethnologue: Rampi language
SIL International reports on Sulawesi languages
Academic sources on South Sulawesi indigenous peoples
Missionary field reports (public domain)