Khawngtu Chin Bible Revision Project

Khawngtu Chin, a new pilot project undertaken by the Society earlier this year, is a language spoken by about 5,000 people in Myanmar. It is from the Kuki-Chin branch of the Tibeto-Burman group of languages. They are 98% Christian (of which 75% are evangelical Christians).

Khawngtu Chin speakers live in the mountainous Sami region of Paletwa Township, Chin State, suffering from poverty as well as a lack of amenities and development. Chin State has witnessed ongoing violence and human rights violations, as well as ethnic and religious persecution since the military junta came to power through a coup several years ago.

As with speakers of the other Chin dialects, the Khawngtu have a strong desire to have the Scriptures in their own heart language. In worship services, the Burmese Bible is used for reading and preaching. A Khawngtu New Testament based on the Authorised Version was printed in 2005. It is agreed, however, that this work needs review and revision with reference to the Greek Received Text. Two pastors wish to take up this work along with a group of pastors who are willing to review the work. In April 2024, the General Committee approved a pilot project on the Gospel according to John.

‘Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound’ (2 Timothy 2.9).

How to pray for this project:

• For the two pastors revising the Gospel according to John.
• For peace to be restored to the Chin State.
• For the Khawngtu Chin speakers to be encouraged and blessed by the fruits of this revision.