Introduction / History

Tawoyan is one of the Dayak subgroups. They are set apart from other Dayaks by their language, Tawoyan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Tawoyan people (also called Tabojan, Tabuyan, or Taboyan) are almost all involved in tapping rubber trees. They also grow rice and harvest rattan vines. Farmers will cultivate fields until the land is depleted and then move to new fields. Also swallow nests are gathered and sold for bird's nest soup. To add to family income, the women and children above 10 years of age typically weave different products for sale.
Common transport for traveling to district capitals is a small motorboat. The area government is developing roads, but during the rainy season, public transportation is only available once a week on market day. Newcomers from the Banjar and Bakumpai people groups almost completely dominate trade and business.
The husband is the head of the household, but the opinions of the wife must be considered; there is freedom for women to express their opinion. Both husband and wife have the right to work outside of the home.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Tawoyan people follow Kaharingan beliefs. They are obligated to offer food to the spirits of departed ancestors in a ceremony called warah. A cave in the Angah Mountain was designated as a place of ascetic meditation by the Sultan Mangkusari. According to their beliefs, some things which possess special magical powers are Air Silo, a special sacred water and Pupur Silo, a face powder made of finely ground rock sold as a cosmetic that has the power to attract men to women.

What Are Their Needs?

The Tawoyan from Gunung Pure have not even developed a market system yet. Therefore, it is no surprise that there is not a single market in the area.

Prayer Items

Pray for hundreds to be raised up with an unwavering faith in Christ, one that will not be shaken, no matter what comes their way.
Pray for God to bring about his purpose for the Tawoyan Dayak people.
Pray for Christians to have love, joy, peace, and patience as they tell others about the King of kings.
Pray for a mighty Holy Spirit revival to permeate their families and churches, drawing them into greater love for God and for their neighbors.

Scripture Prayers for the Dayak, Tawoyan in Indonesia.

References

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