Rakhine in Myanmar (Burma)

Rakhine in Myanmar (Burma)

pronounced: ruh-KINE

Centuries ago, the most feared pirates and sailors in the Bay of Bengal terrorized communities along the seacoast and far up the river channels of what is now Bangladesh. They were called maghs, or pirates. They now speak the Arakanese language, and may be known as the Arakanese or Rakhine, from the Arakan region of Myanmar. The people themselves dislike the term "Magh" and prefer to be called Marmas, which means "Burmese."

Ministry Obstacles

The devout, animistic/Buddhist traditions of this people have made them unreceptive to the Gospel in the past.

Outreach Ideas

Stories from Scripture may communicate effectively to these people. Trained storytellers, also using the Jesus film and God's Story video, can be equipped and sent.

Scripture Focus

"People from many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of Jacob’s God. There he will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths.” For the Lord’s teaching will go out from Zion; his word will go out from Jerusalem."  Isaiah 2:3

Scripture Prayer

Pray for a heart-felt seeking of the Lord among many from today’s people group.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the few believers among this people, for pastors to teach the Scriptures accurately and faithfully to them. Pray for them to grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Pray for educational opportunities for the youth, and for employment opportunities for breadwinners.