People
Who they are
The Huli live in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea, mainly in Hela Province. Known worldwide for the men’s tradition of making wigs from their own hair and for ceremonial face painting in vivid shades of yellow and red, they have a striking and vibrant cultural identity.
Their society is organized around clan and lineage ties, where community honor and oral histories passed down from generation to generation preserve the memory and customs of their ancestors.
Where they live
1
Country
293K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Papua New Guinea Significantly reached
|
100%
|
288.000 |
How they live
Daily Huli life revolves around subsistence farming, with sweet potatoes as the staple food, grown in fertile mountain gardens. Pig raising plays a central role, with pigs serving as a means of exchange, bridewealth payments and a sign of social prestige.
The transition to manhood traditionally involves years in ritual schools in the forest, where young men learn traditions and grow the hair used to make their celebrated ceremonial wigs.
What they believe
The vast majority of the population profess Christianity, which has been present in the region since the middle of the last century. Local churches are active and part of everyday community life. However, traditional beliefs in the power of forest spirits and the influence of ancestors, along with fear of accusations of sorcery, still coexist with their professed faith, calling for sound biblical teaching to dispel long-standing fears.
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.
Huli
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)88%
Evangelicals19%
Needs
The region faces recurring land disputes and tribal rivalries, recently intensified by the use of modern firearms. There is an urgent need for well-organized healthcare services and educational opportunities for children. Spiritually, the community needs ongoing discipleship to help strengthen faith and transform long-standing cycles of revenge into real reconciliation.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Por reconciliação e paz duradoura entre as linhagens e clãs rivais na região.
Pelo aprofundamento do discipulado e libertação de temores ligados à feitiçaria ancestral.
Pelo fortalecimento de pastores e líderes comunitários na condução bíblica de suas igrejas.
Por melhorias no acesso a cuidados médicos e saneamento nas aldeias mais isoladas.
Pela juventude huli, para que cresça enraizada na fé em Cristo e preserve sua cultura com dignidade.
Pray for Huli
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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