People
Who they are
The Lamaholot live in the eastern part of Flores and on the neighboring islands of Adonara, Solor, and Lembata, in the Indonesian province of East Nusa Tenggara. With an identity shaped by volcanic mountains and coastal waters, they preserve a culture rich in oral traditions and deep community ties. They speak Lamaholot, which has several local dialects, and keep the memory of their ancestral lineages alive in traditional villages.
Where they live
2
Countries
270K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Indonesia Partially reached
|
80.6%
|
216.000 |
Malaysia Partially reached
|
19.4%
|
52.000 |
How they live
Families depend primarily on rain-fed agriculture for their livelihoods, growing maize, cassava, and rice, as well as small-scale fishing in coastal villages. Women are known for handweaving traditional textiles that are highly valued in ceremonies. Social life is structured around patriarchal clans and customary traditions, which govern marriages, harvest celebrations, and the peaceful resolution of community conflicts.
What they believe
The majority profess the Christian faith, the result of centuries of Christian presence in the region, alongside Muslim minorities in coastal areas. However, many everyday practices are still interwoven with ancestral beliefs in nature spirits and rituals honoring ancestors, reflecting a strong attachment to traditional customs.
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.
Lamaholot
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)73%
Evangelicals9.6%
Needs
The island communities face challenges related to geographic isolation, limited transportation infrastructure, and restricted access to advanced medical care. Spiritually, there is a need for ongoing discipleship and accessible biblical teaching to strengthen families in their daily walk of faith.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo aprofundamento bíblico das igrejas locais, para que a fé vá além das tradições formais.
Pela capacitação e encorajamento de líderes cristãos para o discipulado e ensino das Escrituras.
Pelo desenvolvimento econômico sustentável e novas oportunidades para as famílias das ilhas.
Pela libertação do medo dos espíritos ancestrais por meio da revelação do amor de Jesus Cristo.
Pelo fortalecimento de comunidades de fé vibrantes que testemunhem a seus próprios vizinhos.
Pray for Lamaholot
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar