Arabela, Chiripunu in Peru

Introduction / History

The Arabela people (also called Chiripunu) live mainly along the Arabela River in Loreto, Peru. Their name comes from their home river. They historically remained isolated until the 1940s when contact with missionaries and others increased. The Arabela language belongs to the Záparo language family, one of the most endangered indigenous languages in Peru.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Arabela live in small riverine Amazonian communities. Traditionally they practiced a nomadic lifestyle, living in maloca houses with extended families, and growing crops such as yuca, maize, and fruit, hunting and fishing, and working communally (minga). Today many still farm for subsistence and sell surplus produce locally.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though over half identify as Christian, their faith is often compromised. They need the transforming work of the Holy Spirit to move in their families and churches.

What Are Their Needs?

The Arabela language is endangered, spoken mainly by elders. They need to foster bilingual education and retention of cultural identity.

It's important to look for opportunities for clear gospel teaching integrated with respect for culture.

Prayer Points

Pray for translation of scripture and resources into Arabela to reach hearts in their own language.
Pray for young people and families to encounter Jesus in culturally meaningful ways that honor their heritage.
Pray for disciple-makers and local believers to rise up from within the Arabela community.

Text Source:   Joshua Project