Burmese in Japan

Introduction / History

Originally from the hills of Tibet, the Burmese are now the political, economic, and religious leaders of Myanmar, formerly called Burma. Burmese history is a chronicle of wars and rebellions. Ethnic divisions and political unrest have been common since the first Burmese kingdom in the eleventh century. Consequently, the Burmese have lived in constant instability, fear and bitterness. Amid such turmoil, some fled to the relative stability of other countries such as Singapore, South Korea, and Japan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Burmese people in Japan came there either as political refugees or as businessmen. Those who are refugees often have low-paying jobs. They have to deal with a language barrier and the feeling of always being an outsider.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Burmese in Japan practice Buddhism, the major world religion based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama or the Buddha, who lived in the 6th and 5th century BC in ancient India. The Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths by which one can gain spiritual knowledge and escape the endless cycles of reincarnation. Theravada, one of the two major branches of Buddhism, declares that by following the Noble Eightfold Path of right intentions and right actions that a Buddhist can achieve nirvana or a state of freedom and salvation. Mahayana Buddhism, the other main branch of Buddhism, asserts that by following the six perfections that a Buddhist can move along the path to Enlightenment. To most Burmese, however, these things have far less meaning than their traditional beliefs, which are usually animistic. In animism, evil spirits must be appeased through prayers, sacrifices and rituals. Buddhism allows people to mix Buddhist teachings with traditional religion. Two of the important Buddhist yearly holidays are Vesak, the Buddha's birthday celebrated in May or June and Bodhi Day, the holiday which commemorates the day that the historical Buddha experienced enlightenment under a Bodhi tree.

What Are Their Needs?

The Burmese people in Japan need to submit to Jesus Christ so they can experience the abundant life He offers them in John 10:10.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of the Buddhist Burmese in Japan.
Pray that the Burmese people will have a spiritual hunger that will open their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for workers who are driving by the love and boldness of the Holy Spirit to go to them.
Pray for Burmese disciples to make more disciples in Japan.

Text Source:   Joshua Project