People
Who they are
The Chuanlan live mainly in Anshun Prefecture in Guizhou Province, southwestern China, in the counties of Anshun, Pingba and Zhenning. They are also called Lao Han, meaning ancient Han, and Tunbao. They are officially classified as Han, but maintain their own identity, with a distinct language and social life. Their name means people dressed in blue.
In the 1950s and again in the late 1970s, they requested recognition as a separate minority, but both requests were denied. According to their traditions, their ancestors arrived in Guizhou between the eighth and ninth centuries, and a second wave of soldiers came in the fourteenth century.
Where they live
1
Country
392K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
China Partially reached
|
100%
|
393.000 |
How they live
Chuanlan women wear embroidered indigo-blue dresses, and traditional clothing has survived in isolated villages, especially among women. They have adopted several customs from their Miao and Buyi neighbors.
Their handwoven belts are particularly distinctive. They have a plain tubular section and patterned sections made using small six-sided tablets that guide the threads, with a knotted fringe at each end.
What they believe
Most Chuanlan follow traditional Chinese religions, which combine ancestor veneration, Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism and belief in spirits. Many are also atheists because of pressure from the communist government.
There are Christians and churches among the Chuanlan, but they are a minority. The churches use the Bible in Chinese in their services.
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.
Mandarin Chinese
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)7.5%
Evangelicals6.8%
Needs
Chuanlan churches need spiritual renewal, a fresh breath of the Holy Spirit, and discipleship that teaches families to live out their faith.
Chuanlan Christians also need courage and support to share the gospel with neighbors who have not yet heard of Jesus.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for spiritual renewal in Chuanlan churches.
Pray for Chuanlan Christians to teach others clearly how to follow Jesus.
Pray for the protection and well-being of Chuanlan families in Guizhou.
Pray for Chuanlan who currently follow traditional religions, Buddhism or no faith to come to know Jesus.
Pray for Chuanlan Christians to have a desire to share the gospel with their neighbors.
Pray for Chuanlan
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar