People
Who they are
The Esan live in central Edo State in southern Nigeria, northeast of Benin City, in towns such as Ekpoma, Uromi and Irrua and in farming villages. They speak Esan, an Edoid language, and are also called Ishan. Traditionally, they were organized into several kingdoms, each ruled by a king called an onojie.
Where they live
1
Country
758K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Nigeria Partially reached
|
100%
|
743.000 |
How they live
Farming is central to their lives: yams, cassava, maize, rice, beans and vegetables, as well as palm trees for palm oil production. Hunting, basketry, ironworking and weaving are also practiced. The yam harvest is celebrated with festivals, and stories passed down by word of mouth teach and entertain. As speech varies from one community to another, many use Nigerian Pidgin, a mixture of English and local languages.
What they believe
Christianity is the most common religion among the Esan, but some combine Christian faith with traditional practices in which ancestors and nature spirits play an important role. Osanobua is the name of the creator God in Esan tradition. There are also Esan Muslims.
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.
Esan
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)80%
Evangelicals9%
Needs
Esan Christians need to grow in faith and receive discipleship. Church pastors and teachers need solid biblical training to support families and help Christians address traditional beliefs.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the livelihoods of Esan families who grow yams, cassava and other food crops.
Pray for the teaching of Scripture in Esan to be understood by speakers of its different varieties.
Pray for Esan Christians to learn to trust Jesus as they deal with traditional beliefs and practices.
Pray for pastors and teachers in Esan churches to receive biblical training and support families with wisdom.
Pray for Esan
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar