Han Chinese, Mandarin in Taiwan

Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world especially Taiwan.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien and Min Bei. Each of these four Chinese dialects is spoken by most people in Taiwan. Mandarin is spoken by almost everyone. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The first Han Chinese people to migrate to Taiwan on a large scale came in the 1600s. Most spoke Hokkien or Hakka, two southern Han Chinese languages. The 1949 Communist Revolution drove out millions of refugees from China. Taiwan was a major destination. Mandarin is the official language in Taiwan, but they speak a separate dialect.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Like other people in Taiwan, Mandarin Chinese enjoy a high standard of living. They have an excellent High-Speed Rail, the streets are safe and the health care system is good.

People often eat food from street vendors, who are often Mandarin Chinese. Mandarin Chinese often own convenience stores.

They must face challenges such as crowded streets, unwanted noise and small living accommodations. The air is polluted.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese in Taiwan have maintained traditional Chinese religion. Over time these traditional religious beliefs added elements of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. These beliefs are centered around the concept of maintaining harmony, something greatly valued by all Chinese people.

The Mandarin Chinese consult horoscopes in an attempt to determine what course of action will promote harmony and bring good luck. They also believe in a pantheon of spirits who inhabit the earth. The spirits of their ancestors supposedly roam the earth, and if treated properly they will bring good luck. Ghosts are the spirits of people who are angry at the circumstances of their death; they are malicious and capricious. By contrast, deities are the souls of people who lived virtuous lives. They have spiritual powers that can be used to benefit those who worship them. Although the Mandarin Chinese claim adherence to these beliefs, they seem to have little effect on their everyday lives. Many are non-religious in their daily practices.

There are Christians among Mandarin speakers. Most of these are strong in their faith. They can be used by God to disciple many.

What Are Their Needs?

Mandarin Chinese people need to take the precious gospel to the Buddhists in Taiwan. It will be difficult, but they have a rare opportunity to reach these unreached people.

Taiwan as a nation needs protection. If and when the PRC attacks Taiwan, the Mandarin Chinese will be especially vulnerable.

Prayer Points

Pray for Mandarin Chinese people to be Christ’s ambassadors to Buddhists in Taiwan.
Pray for the Lord's blessing of the Mandarin Chinese diaspora and the work of their hands as a testimony of his goodness and power.
Pray for Mandarin workers, filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit, to disciple others.
Pray for Mandarin speakers to begin a family-based movement to Christ that will bless them abundantly.

Text Source:   Joshua Project