Although they are devout Muslims, the Banjar proudly trace their origins to a legendary Hindu kingdom, the Negara Dipa. In 1526, Banjar Prince Samudera accepted Islam and took the name of Sultan Suriansyah as a condition of receiving help from a Javanese army in overthrowing his uncle. The Banjar people do not look positively upon modern methods and technologies, nor do they mix socially with other people groups. This isolation has limited their development in education, health care, sanitation and water purification.
Because of their lack of urban and cross-cultural engagement, their society has not progressed with surrounding cultures. They shun most who become Christians for the rest of their lives, making it difficult to spread the name of Jesus.
Missionaries could build schools to encourage education and cultural engagement.
"But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31
Make this your prayer for today’s people group.
Pray that Christian Banjar would find community and fellowship together. Pray for Banjar believers to be disciples who make other disciples. Pray that God would grant repentance and grace to those who need Christ and provide them opportunities to receive him without fear. Pray for a move of the Holy Spirit among the Banjar people, leading to many faithful disciples.
People Name: | Banjar |
Pronunciation: | bahn-JAR |
Country: | Indonesia |
10/40 Window: | Yes |
Population: | 4,416,000 |
World Population: | 4,444,000 |
Language: | Banjar |
Primary Religion: | Islam |
Christian Adherent: | 0.09% |
Evangelical: | 0.04% |
Bible: | Portions |
Online Audio NT: | Yes |
Jesus Film: | Yes |
Audio Recordings: | Yes |
Status: | Unreached |
Progress Level: |