Mazatec, Jalapa de Diaz in Mexico
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| People Name: | Mazatec, Jalapa de Diaz |
| Country: | Mexico |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 23,000 |
| World Population: | 23,000 |
| Primary Language: | Mazatec, Jalapa de Diaz |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 95.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 22.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Zapoteco |
| Affinity Bloc: | Latin-Caribbean Americans |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Mazatec is a language spoken by a Mazatecan tribe in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. All the Mazatec groups live in the Sierra Mazatecas. There are several dialects of Mazatec, one of which is Jalapa de Diaz. Their ancestors were the ancient Toltecs.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Mazatec women are noted for their embroideries that feature flowers and birds. Cloth is bought and used to make clothes.
They grow their own food. Beans, corn, squash, and chili peppers are their staples. Meat and eggs are a luxury, so they get their protein by combining corn and beans. Most use simple farming tools.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Almost all of the Jalapa de Diaz Mazatec people are Roman Catholic. Like many indigenous groups in Mexico, their form of Catholicism often focuses on saints and virgins rather than the risen Christ. Many practice witchcraft, and shamanism has a long history in their community. One of their shamanistic rituals involves the use of hallucinogenic mushrooms.
What Are Their Needs?
Jalapa de Diaz Mazatec people need to put all their faith in Jesus Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray for Jalapa de Diaz Mazatec disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for the Lord to reveal himself in a way that will get their attention.
May they make Christ the center of their lives!