People
Who they are
The Idaaca are a subgroup of the Yoruba people living mainly in central Benin, among rocky hills and fertile valleys. They preserve a strong linguistic and cultural heritage of their own, speaking Ede Idaca, a variety within the Yoruba language complex. Historically connected to the land and agricultural cycles, they maintain community traditions that span generations. Their identity is deeply rooted in communal village life, where reverence for ancestors and kinship ties play an essential role in social cohesion.
Where they live
1
Country
212K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Benin Minimally reached
|
100%
|
207.000 |
How they live
Daily life in Idaaca villages revolves around subsistence farming. Growing yams, cassava, and corn sustains most households, while local markets are centers of trade and social interaction. Families are organized into lineages that respect the wisdom of elders. Community festivities mark harvest seasons, with dances and celebrations shared among neighbors.
What they believe
Most practice local traditional religions, marked by the worship of nature deities and ancestral spirits. Spiritual fear guides daily rituals, consultations with diviners, and offerings to obtain protection and blessings for their crops. Although elements of other faiths have reached the region, attachment to ancestral religious traditions continues to define the community’s worldview and daily decisions.
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.
Ede Idaca
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)7%
Evangelicals0.7%
Needs
Many rural communities face shortages of treated water, basic sanitation, and equipped medical clinics, leaving families vulnerable to seasonal illnesses. There is also a need for greater support for formal education for young people. Spiritually, the people long for hope and freedom from fear of spiritual retaliation, needing biblical fellowship and well-trained local pastors.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo fortalecimento dos poucos crentes locais para que sejam testemunhas fiéis em suas famílias.
Pelo avanço na tradução completa da Bíblia e pela ampla distribuição e leitura das Escrituras já disponíveis em ede idaca.
Por liberdade espiritual contra o medo de maldições e espíritos ancestrais.
Pelo surgimento de igrejas saudáveis e discipulado contextualizado nas aldeias idaacas.
Por melhorias no acesso à água potável e serviços de saúde nas áreas rurais.
Pray for Idaaca
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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