People
Who they are
The Chopi live along a stretch of the coast of southern Mozambique, between Chidenguele and Inharrime, with Zavala and the town of Quissico at its center. They speak the Chopi language, and younger people also speak Portuguese. They are known for timbila, wooden instruments similar to xylophones, played in groups. The word timbila also refers to the dance, music and poetry that accompany the instruments.
Groups in Zavala rehearse for ceremonies and festivals. They sing songs in Chopi composed by the musicians themselves, as well as old songs. In 2005, UNESCO proclaimed Chopi timbila a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
History and origin
During Portuguese rule, timbila orchestras were taken to Portugal: to Porto in 1934 for the first Colonial Exhibition, and to Lisbon in 1940 for the Portuguese World Exhibition. The colonial government used the music to present Mozambique to visitors.
Later, timbila also came to represent the country itself. UNESCO recognition followed an application by the Mozambican government.
Where they live
1
Country
1.6M
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Mozambique Partially reached
|
100%
|
1.521.000 |
How they live
Most Chopi families live by subsistence farming, growing cassava, maize and peanuts. Many also fish. There are many coconut palms and cashew trees along the coast.
Many men work in South African mines, so many households spanning several generations are headed by women. Women farm the land, raise the children, fetch water, cook and sell produce at the market.
What they believe
Most of the people follow a traditional belief system in which ancestors are worshipped and appeased, and traditional healers hold spiritual authority. Animal sacrifices are seen as necessary to gain the favor of the spirits. Cords and threads are tied under clothing for protection.
Many Chopi belong to Zione churches, independent African churches that combine Old Testament teachings with traditional purification rites. There are also some Catholic and Protestant churches. Many church members continue to follow some traditional beliefs.
Language and the Bible
The complete Bible in Chopi was published in 2016. The work began earlier: texts were published in 1931 and 1953, and in 1976 a committee with members from several churches resumed the translation. The New Testament was completed in 2000. Because of differences in speech, there was no agreement on a single translation for a long time. The variety spoken from Mavila to Zandamela, in Zavala, was chosen. The edition includes introductions, notes, a glossary and five maps.
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.
Chopi
Complete Bible
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Done
- Whole Bible Current stage
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)35%
Evangelicals3.8%
Barriers to the gospel
Among the Chopi, belonging to a church does not always mean leaving traditional practices behind. Protection and purification rites continue among people who attend Christian communities. Elders and heads of households, who carry influence in community life, need to put their trust in Christ rather than the spirit world.
Needs
The Chopi need a deep understanding that the Creator is almighty and loves them, and that in Christ there is salvation and victory over darkness. Churches need biblical teaching that also reaches those who follow traditional practices.
Farming is the main source of livelihood, and changes in the climate affect it. Deforestation has also caused a shortage of mwenje trees, whose wood is used to make timbila.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray that Chopi elders and heads of households will put their faith in Christ rather than the spirit world.
Pray for Chopi families who depend on farming as they face changes in the climate, and for good harvests.
Pray for the Chopi Bible to be used in churches and read at home.
Pray that Chopi Christians who still use protection rites will trust in Christ.
Pray that leaders of Catholic, Protestant and Zione churches will teach Scripture clearly.
Pray for Chopi women who support their households while their husbands work far away.
Pray for Chopi
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar