People
Who they are
The Benabena are an indigenous people living in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, concentrated mainly in the fertile valleys of Eastern Highlands Province. Known for their rich cultural traditions and expressive ceremonial art, they preserve a strong identity connected to their land and the Benabena language, which belongs to the Trans-New Guinea language family.
Over recent decades, Benabena society has undergone profound transformations with the arrival of modernization and outside influences, while maintaining its traditional structures of kinship and community leadership.
Where they live
1
Country
113K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Papua New Guinea Significantly reached
|
100%
|
111.000 |
How they live
Daily life among the Benabena revolves around subsistence farming, growing sweet potatoes, taro, and other root crops on fertile slopes, as well as coffee for sale. Pig farming plays a central role in their traditional economy and in social exchanges during weddings and ceremonies. Community organization values cooperation between clans and respect for collective decisions made by local leaders.
What they believe
The overwhelming majority of the Benabena profess Christianity, with Protestant and Catholic denominations established for generations. In practice, however, elements of the traditional worldview, such as belief in the power of ancestral spirits and fear of supernatural retaliation, still influence the daily lives of many families, calling for ongoing theological growth in local churches.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Benabena
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)99%
Evangelicals30%
Needs
Although the communities are well organized, isolation in mountainous areas makes regular access to quality healthcare and advanced educational opportunities difficult. Spiritually, the main need is for sound biblical discipleship that helps the younger generation integrate authentic Christian values with local cultural wisdom, overcoming longstanding fears of witchcraft.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo aprofundamento bíblico das igrejas locais para combater o sincretismo e o medo espiritual.
Pela formação e discipulado de novos líderes comunitários e pastores entre os Benabena.
Pela juventude benabena, para que encontre propósito e firmeza diante das rápidas mudanças sociais.
Pelo fortalecimento de iniciativas de saúde, saneamento e educação nos vales montanhosos.
Por recursos e materiais no idioma do coração que edifiquem as famílias nas aldeias.
Pray for Benabena
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar