Xavánte New Testament (XAVTBL)

Overview

The Xavánte New Testament, titled ꞌRe Ihâimana Uꞌâsi Mono Zadawa Wasuꞌu, is a revised translation published in 2004 by Wycliffe Bible Translators. The Xavánte, who call themselves A'uwẽ ("the people"), are a Jê-speaking indigenous people of eastern Mato Grosso state in central Brazil, historically known for their fierce resistance to colonization. [1] During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Xavánte undertook large westward migrations across the Araguaia River to escape colonial expansion, and they successfully defended their territory in the Roncador region against outsiders until the 1930s-1940s. [1] [2] The New Testament translation reflects decades of linguistic work among the Xavánte by SIL International and Wycliffe missionaries. Work toward a complete Bible has been led by Indigenous leader Silvério Orewawe. [3]

Language and People

Xavánte (ISO 639-3: xav) is spoken by approximately 19,000 people in Eastern Central Brazil. [Glottolog: xava1240] Xavánte (also called Akwẽ) belongs to the Jê branch of the Macro-Jê language family and is closely related to Xerente. [2] The Xavánte live in several villages across multiple Indigenous territories in eastern Mato Grosso, including the Pimentel Barbosa, Marechal Rondon, and Areões reserves. [1]

Publishing and Organizations

Published by Wycliffe Bible Translators, Inc. Translation type: Revision.

References