Danau in Myanmar (Burma)
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Henk Sebregts All rights reserved. Used with permission |
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| People Name: | Danau |
| Country: | Myanmar (Burma) |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 5,600 |
| World Population: | 5,600 |
| Primary Language: | Danau |
| Primary Religion: | Buddhism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.50 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.40 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Online Audio NT: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | Mon-Khmer |
| Affinity Bloc: | Southeast Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Danau speak their own language, which is part of the Mon-Khmer branch of the Austro-Asiatic family. It is related to the Palaung Pale and Riang languages spoken in the same area.
According to author and researcher Richard Diran, Danau people live in central areas of Shan State and the northern part of Kayah State in Myanmar. One of the main centers for the Danau seems to be the town of Pindaya, located about 50 kilometres (32 mi.) north of Kalaw and Taunggyi.
What Are Their Lives Like?
They are fishermen and cotton growers.
What Are Their Beliefs?
An estimated 95 per cent of Danau people adhere to Theravada Buddhism, mixed with spirit worship and occult practices. They embrace Buddhism and practice witchcraft and black magic. Pindaya is home to the famous Pindaya limestone caves, overlooking the picturesque Boutaloke Lake. Inside the cavern there are more than 8,000 Buddha images—made from alabaster, teak, marble, brick, lacquer, and cement—which have been put there over the centuries and arranged in such a way as to form a labyrinth throughout the various cave chambers.
What Are Their Needs?
There are Danau believers in Jesus Christ, and there is much potential for church growth. They have a couple of churches, and the believers need to be Christ bearers to their families and communities.
Prayer Points
Pray for a "Book of Acts" type of movement to Christ among the Danau people in Myanmar.
Pray God will have mercy on the Danau, doing whatever it takes to place them in a position to receive him.
Ask God to open the hearts of the Danau to the gospel.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.