Piaroa in Colombia

Introduction / History

The Piaroas, an indigenous group in Colombia, used to be food gatherers, hunters and fishermen.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are more urbanized than they were in the 20th century. Some have become well-educated; they are now teachers, nurses and professionals. The less fortunate among them are day laborers.

Those in rural areas are sometimes farm laborers. Others raise livestock, grow their own food and hunt. One Piaroa settlement was learning how to avoid soil erosion and preserve river banks to help the local ecology. Their idea of a perfect meal includes both meat that men find on a hunt and manioc bread from his wife s garden.

At age six, children begin their education with a shaman. This culture values getting along well with others. Therefore, the shaman teaches children to refrain from arguments, jealousy, arrogance, dishonesty and cruelty. There is very little in the way of violence in their community; violence is frowned upon.

They are laid back in their work and personal lives. No one is compelled to do anything. They value calmness. Competitiveness is unacceptable; they equate it to cannibalism and violence.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Piaroa shamans set the course for their spirituality. They believe misfortune happens because of sorcery, so they also perform sorcery. There is also a large percentage of Christians among them including Evangelicals.

What Are Their Needs?

The Piaroas need protection from miners who encroach on their land.

Prayer Points

Pray for God to have his hand of protection and mercy on Piaroa families.
Pray for Piaroa disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for the Lord to bring revival to the Piaroa homeland and sending many as Christ s ambassadors.

Text Source:   Joshua Project