September 2019

Editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Feature of the Month Keith Carey For comments on content call 626-398-2241 or email [email protected]

ASSISTANT EDITOR Paula Fern

Dear Praying Friends, WRITERS Patricia Depew Last month we prayed for Pakistan’s Muslims; this Karen Hightower month we will pray for many of the same communities Wesley Kawato Pray for David Kugel on the Indian side of the border. We will pray for Christopher Lane Ted Proffitt people practicing the same religion in a different Cory Raynham Lydia Reynolds A Disciple Making Movement Among Every country, but often speaking a different language. You Jean Smith will notice some “repeats” from last month, but these Allan Starling Chun Mei Wilson Muslim Frontier People Group in India are people who really need continual prayer. Others, John Ytreus

like the Bohras and the Memons, are only on the PRAYING THE SCRIPTURES Indian side of the border. Like the other Frontier Keith Carey

People Groups we are praying for during this 13-month CUSTOMER SERVICE time of prayer, these have very little movement towards Lois Carey Lauri Rosema Christ among them, and less than one in 1,000 has GRAPHICS embraced Christ. Therefore there is good reason to pray Keith Carey for spiritual openness in these groups! David Gutierez PRINTER Yuli Color Reproduction Co., LTD. In Christ, (Taiwan)

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https://prayerstrategists.net/about/ Keith Carey, editor-in-chief, GPD prayer-guides/ [email protected] ISSN 1045-9731 Contents of the Global Prayer Digest © 2019 Frontier Ventures 1605 East Elizabeth Street Pasadena, CA 91104

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82 83 To Help You Pray Better INDIAN MUSLIMS

found that some parts of India had already been exposed to Islam even though they were far from the trading ports. There had been Muslim Indian Muslims: Dangerous Then, attempts to conquer India going back to Mohammed Bin Qasim in 672 In Danger Now A.D. Many early invasions led to short lived empires. Muslim invaders came to stay after 1000 A.D. Mahmud of Ghazni conquered most of northern India. By the 16th century the Ghazni Empire had collapsed

iStock/eskaylim and the political void was filled by the Mughal Empire. Mughal forces came from Persia and were already Muslims when they arrived in India. In 1526 Sultan Babur, the founder of the dynasty, defeated his enemies at the first Battle of Panipat. That victory made the Mughals the dominant power in India. The Mughals tolerated other religions in the territory they ruled. Many of their subjects converted to Islam in order to gain economic favors from the Mughal court. Most of India’s conversions to Islam happened between the 12th and 16th centuries A.D. when India was ruled by one Muslim empire after another. The Mughal Empire began to weaken with their defeat at the Battle of Karnably in 1739 A.D; but its demise was not complete until the British Raj, a reference to British rule in what are now the South Asian countries of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

European Interference India’s religious problems today are deeply rooted in her European traders arrived in India after 1498 when Vasco Da Gama, a —by Wesley past. Most of you have heard of the clashes between Hindus Portuguese explorer, sailed around Africa to reach India. India’s spices Kawato and Muslims in the state of Kashmir; but Muslims live all proved to be popular in Europe. European powers soon began fighting over the country, and they make up 14 percent of India’s for trading rights for India’s spices. population according to the 2011 census. Religious violence can happen in just about any part of India. Why is this? At first the Portuguese were the dominant traders in India. They Read on and find out. established a trading colony in Goa. Years later the Dutch kicked out the Portuguese. They established a trading colony in Sri Lanka. By the

1700s Britain and France had ejected the Dutch. These nations fought Islam Spreads Through Conversion and Conquest a series of wars for control of India. The American Revolution was just Many of India’s Muslims trace their origins back to Arab one front in a global war between Britain and France. While the French traders who settled on the west coast of India during the 7th were aiding the American colonies, British and French troops fought for century A.D. Conversions to Islam quickly followed, and control of India. Britain eventually won. more of them happened when the Muslims of Arabia began By the 1700s the Maratha Empire had collapsed, leaving behind many sending missionaries to India around 1050 A.D. Iman Al- smaller states in India. By the time the fighting between Britain and Mutansir Billah was the first of these missionaries. They France ended in 1783 there was no longer a unified Indian nation that

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85 INDIAN MUSLIMS INDIAN MUSLIMS

could put up a united front against the British. That allowed Britain The British won WWII in 1945, but they were financially drained. Great to make separate deals with the rulers of the Indian states. By 1850 Britain could no longer afford the cost of maintaining a colonial empire a combination of economic and military aid had turned many Indian so they made plans to grant India independence. Shortly after the war sultans into British puppets, increasing Indian resentment against the Lord Mountbatten became the new governor of India. He quickly learned British. The British also recruited thousands of Indian men of all races how much India’s Hindus and Muslims hated each other. That forced and religions to serve in her military. him to resort to a two-state solution. The secret deals made by the British during World War II also tied Mountbatten’s hands. Britain had promised independence to both the Hindus and the Muslims. Gandhi and Nehru The Mutiny of 1857 and the British Raj opposed Mountbatten’s two state solution. They argued for the creation One of the few times India’s Hindus and Muslims united to resist of a unified Indian state. Mountbatten stuck with his original plan. India British rule was in 1857. There was a rumor that the British were using and Pakistan were granted independence in 1947. India was created to be beef fat to coat bullets. That offended India’s Hindus. Another rumor a secular-Hindu nation, and Pakistan was created to be a safe haven for said that the British were using pork fat to coat bullets. That offended South Asia’s Muslims. India’s Muslims. These rumors led to a rebellion among Britain’s native troops in India, better known as sepoys. Cooperation between the Hindu and Muslim rebels quickly broke down. The Hindu Sepoys India’s Independence in 1947 became discouraged and abandoned the cause, leaving the Muslims to Things didn’t go smoothly during the transition to independence. Britain fight alone. When the British attacked, most of the Sepoys killed were gradually withdrew her troops from India. In March of 1946 the Great Muslims. The rebellion was crushed, and India’s Muslims never forgot Calcutta Riot left 4,000 Muslims and Hindus dead. The killings got how they’d been abandoned by the Hindus. worse in 1947. Hindu militants drove Muslims from areas slated to be part The Indian Mutiny of 1857 gave the British Empire an excuse to take of India. Muslim militants drove out Hindus from areas slated to be part direct control of India. British regular army units moved into India of Pakistan. Thousands on both sides died. with orders to restore peace. Sultans who’d supported the mutiny were Even after the partition of India became official in 1947, India and deposed. In 1858 A.D. much of India was placed under the rule of Pakistan fought their first war. These two countries fought a second war British colonial governors. in 1965 over control of Kashmir. They fought a third time in 1971 when During the era of direct British rule, the British protected the Bangladesh seceded from Pakistan and India sided with Bangladesh. Muslims from Hindu attacks. This was part of Britain’s policy of After 1947 India was left with a large Muslim minority despite efforts of maintaining peace in India. Things remained peaceful until 1918 Hindu militants to drive them out of India. when India’s colonial army returned from fighting in World War I. Many ethnic Indian veterans felt their country deserved independence, Today there continues to be tension between India’s Hindus and Muslims. especially given the inability of European nations to get along. Calls Hindus sometimes accuse Muslims of killing “sacred” cows, leading to for independence grew ever louder between 1918 and 1947. Those bloody riots. In 1992 the destruction of Babri Mosque by Hindu militants agitating for independence were led by skilled leaders like Mahatma angered the Muslim community. Many Hindus believed the mosque sat Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. on the birth place of Lord Ram, a Hindu god. This was another pretense for attacking the Muslim minority. In 1941 the start of World War II in the Pacific caught the British by surprise. Britain needed troops to fend off a possible Japanese invasion of India. Most Indians weren’t eager to fight for the British again. That Pray for peace between India's Hindu and Muslims! forced the British to offer incentives to recruit Indian troops, so they made secret deals with Hindu and Muslim community leaders, leading to more animosity between Hindus and Muslims.

86 87 DAY DAY 01 ASSAMESE MUSLIMS IN INDIA KASHMIRI MUSLIMS IN INDIA 02 rom 10:14, NIV ne of n the heart 2 thes 3:16, NLT the of one of the How, then, can they call Now may the Lord of Ohottest Imost spectacu- on the one they have not iStock/dheeraj11 peace himself give you political larly beautiful believed in? And how can iStock/vlad_karavaev his peace at all times and issues in areas of the they believe in the one in every situation. The the world world is the site of whom they have not Lord be with you all. today is of some of the heard? And how can they illegal fiercest conflicts hear without someone Pray that the Lord immigra- – Kashmir! Military personnal are common in Kashmir preaching to them? Delicious Assamese food! will give spiritual and tion. With the physical peace to the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, Kashmir Make this your prayer for Thousands have sought refuge in Europe, fleeing Muslim Kashmiris. was given the choice of siding with either of the Assamese Muslims today! violence in Africa and the Middle East. Central American refugees have confused immigration and two countries. The ruling Hindu class in Kashmir border control efforts in the United States. chose India, but most of the people were Muslims. Kashmir has been a battleground ever since. The same problem exists for the Assamese Muslims in India’s northeastern state of Assam. They are the Most Kashmiris live in rural areas and farm and minority in a Hindu majority state. Complicating raise sheep, goats, and yaks. The world is familiar their status even more is that they are a collection with the fine wool from these animals – cashmere. of Muslim peoples—refugees escaping poverty in There is little opportunity for these mostly rural Bangladesh and descendants of Muslim soldiers Muslims to interact except during festival celebra- who once fought in Assam and decided to stay. Even tions or pilgrimages to shrines. though they are Muslim they celebrate many Hindu Kashmiri Muslims enjoy singing and telling festivals and customs. They even allow their daughters stories around the fire. Their love for music may to marry Hindu men. be a way to reach their hearts for Jesus. They are These Assamese Muslims have been victims in recent a hospitable people. Those who reach out to them uprisings and attempts by the Indian government must find a person of peace. to regulate immigration from Bangladesh. Many of Pray for the Lord to raise up men of peace to open the them fear for their lives even though their families doors of Kashmir to the Prince of Peace. Pray that God have lived in Assam for generations. They have many will give Kashmiri believers boldness to share Christ problems, but they do not recognize their greatest with their people and deliver them from persecution. danger – unless they respond to the only savior, they Pray that God will give Kashmiri Muslims a revela- will never experience his blessings and peace. tion of who Jesus truly is and the boldness to learn Ask the Father to send his harvesters to Assam to befriend more about him and share his love with others.—JS and share Christ with Assamese Muslims. Pray for Christ’s blessings to reach Assamese families.—JS

88 89 DAY DAY 03 MAPPILA MUSLIMS IN INDIA TAMIL MUSLIMS IN INDIA 04 1 tim 2:9-10, NLT appila t’s not easy being a minority 2 tim 1:8b, NLT Muslim group in any country. That

And I want women to be iStock/Zzvet With the strength God womenM are the Iis the case with the Tamil modest in their appearance. gives you, be ready to suffer heads of their Muslims in Tamil Nadu, They should wear decent Bay of ÁlvaroRodríguezÉlez India's most southeastern Arabian with me for the sake of the and appropriate clothing families because Sea Bengal state. They comprise 5.5 good news. and not draw attention to their husbands percent of the population of themselves by the way they are often gone Pray for the Holy Spirit to give this predominantly Hindu fix their hair or by wearing Fishing off the coast of Kerala on fishing or strength and supernatural area, and there is also a strong Andhra gold or pearls or expensive other sea-going Pradesh love to all who reach out to Christian minority that speaks Karnataka clothes. For women who ventures. The Laccadive Mappila live on the the Tamil Muslims. Tamil. Some Tamil Muslims claim to be devoted to God Lakshadweep Islands off the southwestern Kerala K coast of India. God knows them intimately and live in close-by Sri Lanka. er Tamil Nadu should make themselves ala They are a diverse group, but attractive by the good longs for them to be represented at his throne in are identified by their common things they do. eternity. They migrated as Hindus from Kerala language of Tamil. Some SRI in the 7th century but converted to Islam due to LANKA Pray that Muslims will the work of an Arab missionary. Their islands members of the Tamil Muslim understand that there are are tropical like Hawaii, and they raise the same community are descended many things that they fruits and vegetables as the Hawaiians. Their from Tamil women and Arab traders, much like the already believe that can lead islands are covered with coconut trees, so the Mappila Muslims that we prayed for yesterday. them to the eternal Savior. husky fiber is used to make ropes and mats which provides their main industry. The Tamil Muslims are peace-loving, and in general, get along with their Hindu neighbors. Their The fact that their society is matrilineal is unusual occupations run the gamut from white-collar jobs, for Muslims. However, they are monogamous industrial workers, to those engaged in intricate even though Islam allows for a man to have embroidery work. Though there are Tamil speaking as many as four wives. It may be that the believers who can reach them, it will be difficult; wives, being the bosses, decided that they did Muslims who profess Christ are usually considered not want their husbands to have other wives! traitors by their community. Believers will usually Unfortunately, monogamy hasn’t helped in their need to go through Muslim community leaders. marriages. Divorce is easy and common, and over half of their marriages fail. Pray that God will give the vision of reaching Tamil Pray that God will call believers from Kerala to go Muslim families to churches or organizations. Pray that to the Lakshadweep Islands to share Christ with they will adopt them as their special people group to the Mappila Muslims. Let us pray for God to give pray for, visit, befriend, and bless with the presence of them dreams and visions of himself. Pray for entire Christ. Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Tamil Mappila families to be blessed by Christ.—JS Muslim leaders.—JS

90 91 DAY DAY 05 MUSLIM DARZI PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM DHOBIS IN INDIA 06 prov 16:3, NLT he traditional here exists a i kings 7:40, nlt story says that notable class

Commit your actions to iStock/MGTS He also made the necessary Tthe Hindu god iStock/alexeys T the LORD, and your plans of washer-men, the wash basins, shovels, and Parasarama was will succeed. Dhobis, who live bowls. So at last Huram pursuing two within the Indian completed everything King brothers to destroy Pray that Solomon’s advice caste system. They Solomon had assigned him them. A priest would be embraced today are found on to make for the Temple of offered to hide street corners and by the Muslim Darzi people A Muslim Darzi tailor at work the Lord… of India. them in a temple, byways, ready to provide their services to anyone employing one to sew clothing and the other to dye who needs clean clothes. In northern India and Pray that the Muslim Dhobi clothes. Up until recently the Darzi have taken after Nepal, some Dhobi are involved in government people will understand that the first brother and become tailors, while another service or agriculture, though most retain their all work can be a holy act group called the Darji are cloth dyers. traditional occupation. Many are Hindu, and there of worship and devotion to is a separate Dhobi population defined by their the Lord. Though most remain Hindu, about a million are Islamic practices. now Muslims in India. Their name comes from the Persian darzan which means “to sew.” Today Although they are not strangers to education the many are taking advantage of educational oppor- Dhobi of India are considered untouchable. Indeed, tunities to become teachers, designers, and other the Muslim Dhobi in some Indian states are professionals. more literate than in other Muslim communities. However, literacy rates are still low, and even the There has been no progress in gospel outreach to children work to help sustain their families. In the Darzi people. The Muslim population speaks Muslim Dhobi communities, women have low Urdu, so they have Bible translations, the JESUS status and maintain no rights over family properties. Film, and gospel recordings in their language. To Families arrange marriages, and boys marry as our knowledge, no believers are actively reaching young as 16, girls as young as 14. Christian materi- out to them. But Urdu radio broadcasts have the als are available in languages of the Muslim Dhobis, potential to turn their hearts to the Lord. but workers are few.

Pray for Muslim Darzi people to heed the word of Pray for workers among the Muslim Dhobis, and that the Lord when they hear it. Pray that believers will many will respond with repentance, gratitude, and commit to assisting the Darzi people with economic dedication to the Lord of lords. Pray for increased opportunities and micro loans as a way of showing them economic opportunity and education, and for women the goodness and lovingkindness of Christ. Pray that to be honored in Dhobi families. Pray for a change in believers from throughout India would reach out to both heart that will move Dhobi families to embrace and the Muslim and Hindu Darzi communities.—JY demonstrate the radical love of Christ.—BK

92 93 DAY DAY MUSLIM HAJAM (NAI) PEOPLE 07 IN INDIA MUSLIM QASSAB PEOPLE IN INDIA 08 ps 105:1, NLT he Hajam (or Nai) (This story 2 tim 2:10, NLT are much more than a illustrates truths Give thanks to the Lord So I am willing to endure

iStock/Dymov casteT of barbers. They have about this and proclaim his greatness. anything if it will bring always trimmed beards people group.) iStock/BravissimoS Let the whole world know and nails, provided shaves, salvation and eternal glory what he has done. he rich extracted teeth, set sprains, in Christ Jesus to those God aroma of and lanced boils. Today has chosen. Pray that when the Muslim Tthe spicy meat many of the Muslim Hajam people hear of the dishes was Pray that God will raise up Hajam perform minor Qassab at his shop risen Christ that they will tell soaring out of people who will endure surgeries as well, including others what he has done. three large serving containers as Rasheed, a Qassab anything to make sure the circumcision. Though they butcher, was carrying them into a large tent set up Qassab people in India have have low status because in Mumbai’s Islamic Relief center for the poor. He a chance to meet and obey A Muslim Hamam at work they deal with “dead” walked over to his wife who was doing volunteer the only savior. matter like hair, they work and said, “Eiliyah, this is the best I can do have a special place in South Asia because they for today. I sold more meat today so there was not are essential at major events such as weddings or much left.” She replied, “It will be deeply appreci- funerals. The Hajam can also be matchmakers, ated. Allah has blessed us since we have started to and Hajam women are sometimes midwives. To help others. Your meat store is doing better each make things more interesting, they are noted for day.” Smiling, Rasheed replied, “I feel you and I are being good conversationalists while they service closer to Allah since we have shown mercy to those their customers. who are poor and hungry.” Those who rise in social status drop the name of For centuries Qassab Muslim butchers have been Hajam and call themselves Salmani, as they claim well known for their meat throughout India and to be descendants from the prophet Solomon. parts of Pakistan. They are friendly and often show Though the Hajam are a fairly large Muslim group generosity to others. To them the way to follow within India, there is still little-to-no ministry God is to be a Muslim. They reject efforts made by among them. They can be slow to adopt new believers to tell them about the need for Jesus. ideas, which suggests that reaching them may be Pray that the Qassabs will hear God’s words and accept a challenge. However, the Hajam are a strategic them. Pray for leaders of their families and communities group to reach, and they have contact with many to embrace Christ and open the door for others to learn other communities. to love and obey Jesus Christ.—PD Pray for workers to enter the field of harvest among the Muslim Hajam. Pray that Hajam leaders would not only hear, but embrace the love of the Father, and tell others of his goodness.—BK

94 95 DAY DAY 09 MUSLIM BHISTI PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM BELDAR PEOPLE IN INDIA 10 acts 3:19-20, NIV (This story (This story 2 thes 3:1, NLT illustrates Repent, then, and turn to illustrates truths truths Finally, dear brothers God, so that your sins may about this

about this iStock/IndianFace and sisters, we ask you to be wiped out, that times of people group.) people group.) pray for us. Pray that the refreshing may come from Come over Lord’s message will spread the Lord, and that he may iStock/ChandrashekarReddy he here! This man rapidly and be honored send the Messiah, who has scorch- “needs help!” wherever it goes, just as been appointed for you— Ting Mohammad when it came to you. even Jesus. Pray for adequate rain for Indian farmers afternoon was calling an heat made Pray that the good news Pray that the Bhisti people ambulance driver as he ran to a Beldar Muslim Faatina’s will quickly spread through will soon experience and man who had collapsed. The poor man was a feet feel like Muslim Beldar communities, help others experience farmer who had walked 111 miles along with they were on fire as she walked through the streets and that they will respond spiritual refreshment from 50,000 other farmers and their families to of Kolkata, India. She was so thirsty and saw a with repentance, faith, joy, the Lord that will be far more Mumbai. They came because they desperately haggard looking older Bhisti man struggling as he and commitment to the Lord. satisfying that cold water on needed help promised by the government. carried his heavy masak (goat skin filled with water). a hot day! A younger man, also with a masak, was calling out, Over several years a devastating drought had “Come have a drink of cool water!” It had been a all but destroyed their ability to grow adequate long time since she bought a drink from a Bhisti. crops, so the Indian government offered relief. She asked the younger man for a drink. She then When these promises never materialized, 1,750 inquired, “why is this older man doing this hard of these farmers committed suicide. Some of work?” Aaqib replied, “We have no choice, all we them were Muslim but the majority were Hindu. know is to be water carriers. We must earn what Now Mohammed and others in Mumbai were we can so our children go to school and get better trying to help these poor farmers by giving work than this.” them food, water, medical help, and shelter at Azad Maidan, a public park in Mumbai, so they The Bhistis were a Muslim group from Arabia who can have the strength to plead their case with trace their history back to the Mughal invaders of government officials. India. Originally, they supplied water for villages, and gradually, this became their main source of Pray these farmers will receive government help so income. Today there are about 545,000 Muslim they can thrive economically and get back to growing Bhistis spread across parts of India and southwest- needed food. Pray that believers will offer material ern Pakistan. and spiritual comfort at this time of need. Pray that the Beldar people will have their lands refreshed Pray that the future will bring new hope for the Bhistis, with rain, so they can have a good harvest. Pray not just through a vocational change but spiritual that they will give thanks and devotion to the King refreshment from Jesus Christ.—PD of kings.—PD

96 97 DAY DAY 11 PINJARA PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM TELI PEOPLE IN INDIA 12 dan 4:37, NLT o you hat 2 cor 5:20, NLT wear is an Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, So we are Christ’s

cottonD cloth- importantW iStock/ArtRich praise and glorify and iStock/Marvod ing? You prob- ingredient ambassadors; God honor the King of heaven. ably do. One in food that is making his appeal All his acts are just and true, of the primary we seldom through us. We speak and he is able to humble communities think about? for Christ when we plead, the proud. who clean and Many cooked “Come back to God!” weave cotton foods contain Pray that the Pinjara people Cotton, all ready for Pinjaras Pray that the Teli become in South Asia This is our third month in a row praying for the Telis! would, like Nebuchadnezzar, cooking oil are the Pinjara. In fact, their name means, “cotton Christ’s ambassadors in learn to praise, exalt and of some type. weaver.” They produce and sell cotton products such India and tell many about glorify the King of heaven. The Muslim Teli are a people who live in north his mercy and grace. as mats, mattresses, clothing, pillows, and blankets. India and Pakistan. Their traditional occupation Many Pinjara have taken up other occupations such is that of extracting oil from mustard and sesame as selling leather goods, baskets, stationary, and paan seeds. Their name Teli means, “oil presser.” The Teli (betel leaf) in shops. Some are engaged as daily-wage are said to have descended from Baba Hasu, the man laborers, masons, bullock-cart drivers or rickshaw- who invented the wooden oil-pressing machine. pullers. The educated Pinjara work in government and private sectors. The Teli’s traditional occupation of oil pressing is Originally all Pinjara were Hindus. About 500 years now being replaced with growing cash crops like ago when the Moguls ruled India, many Pinjara wheat and maize. Much of the oil processing in converted to Islam. Today most Pinjara are Muslim, India and Pakistan is now done in modern factories. but there is still a sizable population of Hindus The Teli have many small businessmen and traders among them. Strict Muslims sometimes criticize among them, although many are still engaged in oil the Pinjara for retaining many Hindu customs and pressing. The primary language of the Muslim Teli worshipping Hindu gods. The Pinjara speak many is Urdu, a language with a complete Bible and ample different languages depending upon where they Christian literature. live. Most Pinjara also speak Urdu, a major South Asian language. Pray that the Lord will start a movement of Teli families experiencing God's blessings. Pray for workers needed to Pray that the Muslim Pinjara would gain access to sow God's word into Teli families, healing and strength- Christian materials in Urdu and that they would be recep- ening households with God's blessings. Ask the Lord tive to the claims of Isa or Jesus. Pray for entire Pinjara to raise up and send out a new generation of fruitful, families and communities to discover and embrace the free multiplying witnesses from among the Teli people.—DK gift of life found by trusting Christ. Pray for the Pinjara people to be delivered from their fear of Christianity and to embrace God's blessing through his word.—DK

98 99 DAY DAY 13 BADHAI PEOPLE IN INDIA NAIKDA PEOPLE IN INDIA 14 2 tim 2:1-2, NLT f all he Naikda 2 tim 2:9, NLT

the people are rmnunes Be strong through the grace Twesterners! Not in And because I preach this

iStock/reddees Ooccupations that God gives you in Christ that the the global sense, good news, I am suffering Jesus. You have heard me Son of God but in the sense and have been chained like teach things that have been could have that they live a criminal. But the word of confirmed by many reliable engaged in, primarily in most God cannot be chained. witnesses. Now teach these he chose of India’s western truths to other trustworthy carpentry! states. That is Pray that the word of God people who will be able to An Indian carpenter A people unusual, consider- will not be held back among pass them on to others. group called the Badhai or Barhai practice the ing that India is divided more by north-south than the Naikda people of India. east-west. They have a tribal background; it wasn’t Pray that the Badhai would same trade as Jesus did. The Badhai name comes until colonial days when most of them moved away be strong in God’s grace and from a word meaning “cutting.” Most of the are trained in the ways of Badhai are Hindus, but many converted to Islam from being hunters-gatherers near the forests. They the Lord. during the Mogul Empire (1526-1857). cleared land and started to farm. As more outsiders Muslim Badhai still work as carpenters and encroached on their farmland, the Naikda people woodcutters. Rural Badhai make wooden farm began to rebel, primarily against the British colo- implements like plows in the same way as their nialists whom they blamed for unwelcome changes. ancestors have done for hundreds of years. Some There are nearly four million Naikda people, and urban Badhai have gone into the furniture because of their tribal background, they are business and have become wealthy. Others have considered what Indians call a scheduled caste, purchased land and work in agriculture. which means they have low status. They eat any According to People Groups of India, the Badhai kind of meat, which indicates lower status than high have a rich oral tradition of folksongs, dances, caste communities. and tales that they often share with other They are a Hindu community, even though they communities. The primary language of the practice many of their ancient religious practices. Muslim Badhai of India is Urdu, which allows Such an arrangement is usually allowed in the them to communicate with most Muslim Indians Hindu religious establishment. These people would who live in the northern states. find it hard to accept a different religious system if Pray that God will move believers to engage and believers present the gospel in this fashion. They build friendships with the Badhai. Ask God to deliver need to be told about relationship with Christ. families and communities within the Badhai people Pray that the Naikda people will turn their hearts to from fears that hinder them from embracing his Jesus and establish a means of discipling new believers blessings. Pray that many of the Badhai people will who will in turn make other believers. Pray for these come to love God with their whole being and will Hindus to teach others to become faithful “devotees” of walk in his ways.—DK Jesus Christ.—KC

100 101 DAY DAY 15 GUJAR PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM JATS IN INDIA 16 1 tim 1:12-13, nlt hat an a 1 tim 1:15, NLT animal change of I thank Christ Jesus our Wcan camouflage Coccupation lead This is a trustworthy saying, Lord, who has given me iStock/ajijchan iStock/JudyDillon itself by chang- to a change and everyone should strength to do his work. He ing its color? of religion? accept it: “Christ Jesus considered me trustworthy The chameleon, In the case of came into the world to save and appointed me to serve of course. So the Jats, it did. sinners”—and I am the him, even though I used what has a When some worst of them all. to blaspheme the name chameleon to of their gotras of Christ. In my insolence, Jats are noted for being muscular Pray for the Jat peoples to do with the Gujars of India? Read on to find out! (communi- I persecuted his people. ties) moved from being soldiers to being farmers, understand and embrace But God had mercy on me the Christ who came to save India's diversity is seen in the Gujar people, most some converted to Islam. Persecution by Hindus also because I did it in ignorance them from sin. of whom are either Hindu or Muslims, though helped push Jat communities towards Islam. Muslim and unbelief. 0.3 percent are Sikh, and an unknown number Jats are especially numerous in the north Indian states of Rajasthan and Haryana. Pray for the Holy Spirit to worship the sun. Some in the United Kingdom are strengthen those who will Christian believers. All of these are Gujars, though step out in faith to reach their culture may be different depending on their Today, Punjabi and Sindhi speaking Jats are wealthy India’s Muslims. religion. Like the chameleon, the Gujars blend into and politically powerful, which has given them the their surrounding societies. opportunity to enter politics locally and nationally. More an ethno-linguistic group than a caste, Jats are The Gujar name derives from a word meaning classed as a backward (i.e., underprivileged) caste in cattle grazers. Most live in central northern some Indian states, so some try to get “reservations” India, Pakistan, Kashmir, and Afghanistan. Some for jobs and positions in universities. are seasonal nomads, while others live as semi- nomads. Others live and work in towns. Some, Originally Buddhists, most Jats are now either living in forests, are not integrated into Indian Hindu or Muslim; they often adhere to the faith of society. Most live in extended families under a the majority of the people where they live. Some in community council. the U.K. are Christian believers.

Pray that the Gujar people will allow Christ to bless Pray for missionaries and ministries to work with and transform their culture. Pray that they will follow Muslim Jats to help them improve their lives economi- Christ as a group. Pray that Gujars who are genuine cally and to find their way to Jesus. Pray that Jat believ- followers of Christ in the U.K. will evangelize Gujars ers in the UK will evangelize Muslim Jats there and in in South Asia. Pray that God opens Gujar family India. Pray for churches to regularly pray for Muslim councils to the gospel and Christ.—TP Jat families until there is a church planting movement among them.—TP

102 103 DAY DAY 17 MUSLIM RAJPUTS IN INDIA MUSLIM MEWATI PEOPLE IN INDIA 18 matt 4:24a, tpt ow is it that over (This fictional 1 thes 1:8a, NLT 2.8 million Rajputs account is His fame spread everywhere! iStock/Urilux Hin India follow Islam, intended to And now the word of the Lord is ringing out from Pray that the Lord’s fame and when the large majority depict the you to people everywhere, glory spread throughout the of India’s Rajput peoples spiritual are Hindu? Centuries even beyond Macedonia Muslim Rajput communities situation of this BibleGiveriStockB-C-Designs ago, when the Hindu and Achaia, for wherever of India. Ask God for gospel people group.) Rajputs ruled northern we go we find people breakthroughs that lead to and western portions of abis was telling us about your faith disciple-making movements, India, Muslims invaded walking in God. powerfully blessing India’s and conquered parts of Athrough the marketplace when the book was Muslim Rajputs. India. Many Rajputs thrust at him. He looked into the eyes of the man Pray that the Muslim converted to Islam and offering it to him and blinked. “What is this?” he Mewati people will respond Beautiful architecture from the days have remained Muslim asked. “A gift,” the man replied. Aabis recognized to the word of the Lord, and of Rajput glory to this day. the markings. Shaking his head, he handed it back study it in their homes. and replied, “I know what this is.” “Have you read Muslim Rajputs live throughout India in 27 differ- ent states, but the largest concentrations are found it?” said the giver. “No. But I know that you are in the northern states. This proud, formerly warrior trying to get me to convert to your religion. To be caste people group has become primarily an agri- Mewati is to be a Muslim. It is who I am.” cultural community; however, some have taken on The Mewati people persistently practice Islam. employment in service or wage-labor jobs. In this It is part of their heritage, their culture, and patriarchal culture, the women often do weaving, their identity. Like most Muslims they believe embroidery, and make handkerchiefs. that allowing Christ to be their lord would mean Though India’s Muslim Rajputs adhere to Sunni turning away from family and community. It Islam, they also follow various Hindu practices. could mean being ostracized and persecuted, Of the many languages spoken by these Muslim even risking their lives. How can this barrier be Rajputs, 2.26 million use Urdu as their primary overcome? By sending more workers, providing language. The complete Bible, JESUS Film, more Bibles, engaging in more focused evangelism and audio Bible teachings are available in Urdu. and church planting efforts? Probably. But first, we However, there are no known believers among need to pray! these Muslim Rajputs. Pray for the Lord to tear down the obstacles that are Ask God to draw them to Jesus (Isa al Masih in the keeping the Mewati from putting their trust in Christ. Qur’an). Pray that Muslim Rajput families experience Also pray that God will give them a powerful desire God’s blessing through a movement of family-based for spiritual truth. Pray for their hearts to be prepared discovery Bible studies. Pray that churches will seek to receive God’s ways.—CL out the Muslim Rajputs of India for intentional prayer and outreach.—CR 104 105 DAY DAY 19 MUSLIM MALIK PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM RAYEEN PEOPLE IN INDIA 20 1 thes 1:4, NLT esearchers ne 1 thes 1:10, NLT tell us that We know, dear brothers Rthe Malik are millionO And they speak of how you and sisters, that God loves are looking forward to the iStock/kevron2001 100 percent people you and has chosen you to Muslim. seems like iStock/gustavofrazao coming of God’s son from be his own people. There are a lot of heaven—Jesus, whom no believers people. God raised from the dead. Pray that the Malik people among them. That’s the He is the one who has will respond to God’s Zero. Imagine population rescued us from the terrors abundant love. the spiritual of Austin, of the coming judgment. warfare Texas, taking place for the hearts of this people group! about twice as many people as live in Dublin, Pray that the Muslim Rayeen The enemy would love to drag all of them into Ireland, or Cancun, Mexico. If one million people will flee God’s wrath an eternity away from God. And thus far, he has people went missing, their absence would into the loving arms of been doing a very effective job of this. Despite certainly be noticed. There would be an investi- Jesus Christ. having the Bible, the JESUS Film, and a number gation, a well-organized search operation. of other gospel resources available in their heart language, they continue to be imprisoned There are approximately one million Rayeen by darkness. people in the world today, and they have gone missing. Their names haven’t been written in the What can we do to change this? We can fight for Book of Life. They are, at this writing, consid- them. Not physically with bullets and bombs. The ered unreached. The majority of them are “lost.” Bible tells us that “though we live in the world, we Strangely, there doesn’t seem to be a search party do not wage war as the world does. The weapons actively seeking to find them. we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish Pray for the Lord to alert mission groups to the strongholds” (2 Cor 10:3,4). The Malik are being urgent need to send someone to this people group. held captive by the lies of the enemy. To rescue Pray for the Rayeen to be “ found” – to hear and them, we must pray. respond to the invitation to eternal life. Pray for their names to be written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Ask the Lord to open spiritual doors through their Pray for the hearts, minds, spiritual eyes and ears of family leaders so that they can enjoy the unparalleled the Malik to be opened. Ask God to reveal his light, blessings of the Savior. Pray that soon there will be piercing the darkness and setting them free from Rayeen disciples making more disciples.—CL spiritual captivity. Pray for their leaders to respond to the light of Christ.—CL

106 107 DAY DAY 21 MUSLIM SAYYIDS IN INDIA MUSLIM SHAIKH QURESHI 22 1 thes 5:16-18, NLT (This fictional f you were 2 thes 1:12, NLT story describes to look at a Then the name of our Lord Always be joyful. Never the life of Imap of India Jesus will be honored stop praying. Be thankful the people.) marked with iStock/Meinzahn iStock/maramorosz because of the way you live, in all circumstances, for this the locations ver since and you will be honored is God’s will for you who of the Shaikh childhood, along with him. This is all belong to Christ Jesus. Qureshi people, EHussein had made possible because of you would see Pray for the Lord to grant joy spent the major- the grace of our God and Dholak drums that almost the and thankfulness to members ity of his waking Lord, Jesus Christ. entire country of this Muslim community hours thinking of, practicing, and performing the would be when they turn their hearts to dholak. He was three when he first became mesmer- Pray that when Skaikhs covered! Seven and a half million Shaikh Qureshi Jesus Christ. ized by the beat of this two-headed, horizontal give their lives to Jesus, that drum. He begged his father for his own instrument. are scattered throughout the subcontinent. They they will be blessed with joy At four, he gave his first public performance. All his also live across many socio-economic lines. Some and honor that will make relatives concurred that he was a boy wonder and are well-educated and modern. Others raise cattle all that they have pale heartily supported his musical endeavors. and continue traditional practices such as marriage by comparison. between cousins. Some allow divorce and remar- Now, however, Hussein was a teenager and his father riage. In some communities, the family property wanted Hussein to stop playing, to get serious about is passed largely to the sons in the family, with the school, and go to a prestigious university. His father daughters inheriting a smaller portion of the land. said, “We are Sayyid people; we have long enjoyed a high status. You must forget your musical dreams Psalm 147:4 says, “He determines the number of the and become a lawyer, engineer, or doctor like me stars; he gives to all of them their names” (ESV). and your uncles and your grandfathers. Music is the The Qureshi people are numerous like the stars, and stuff of boyhood, and you must set it aside until you although they are diverse as a people group, they have landed a good job.” don’t possess any strongly defining characteristic. Yet The Sayyid people have long been leaders. They are God knows the name of each person and wants to entrepreneurs, scholars, artists, teachers, lecturers, share his abundant lovingkindness with each one. administrators, engineers, doctors, lawyers, defense Ask him to call out families and clans from among this personnel, and political pundits. They live through- Muslim people group to become his children. Pray that out the Indian subcontinent and are Muslims. soon they will experience the abundant blessings when Pray for the Holy Spirit to touch the hearts of these they hear God’s word and submit to Jesus Christ, the successful people. May they adopt his definition of a only savior.—CMW successful, prosperous life. May they know the best kind of music—singing God’s praises here on earth and in heaven!—CMW

108 109 DAY DAY 23 MUSLIM QAZI PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM MOGHAL PEOPLE IN INDIA 24 1 sam 2:10, NLT (This is a ave you 1 tim 2:5-6, NLT fictional story to ever heard Those who fight against For, there is one God iStock/seb_ra illustrate the life ofH a 100 percent the LORD will be shattered. iStock/eskaylim of the people.) Muslim people and one mediator who He thunders against them group that has no can reconcile God and from heaven; the LORD usa’s workers among humanity—the man judges throughout the stomach them and less Christ Jesus. He gave his earth. He gives power Mflopped over than one in 1,000 life to purchase freedom to his king; he increases like a soggy is a believer? You for everyone. This is the the strength of his piece of naan (bread). The village baker had just are about to pray message God gave to the anointed one. dragged a thief to Musa’s court and asked him, for one. They are world at just the right time. the qadi (or qazi, judge), to find the thief guilty of Moghal people Pray that these Muslim Pray for the Muslim stealing bread. What made this occasion unique of India. judges will have a Godly fear Moghal people of India to was that the accused had been a boyhood friend. of the one who is both judge understand and embrace Though it had been years since the two men had Moghal people and abba, daddy. this truth. seen one another, the recognition was mutual—and have few uncomfortable. Musa’s friend had grown up with a opportunities to hear about Jesus Christ who loves widowed mother, whereas Musa had inherited his them so much that he willingly sacrificed his life father’s house and position as community leader. so that their community may have access to the The thief explained that he had lost his job and his only way to be forgiven from sin. Although Moghal family was starving. Musa’s sense of justice allowed people speak Urdu and a wide range of printed, for no sentimentality, but it still hurt to rule against audio, and visual Bible resources are available in his childhood friend. their language, few would use these materials. They live among families and friends who regard these materials as far less accurate than what they The Qazi people are 100 percent Muslim and hear in the mosques. Those who decide to listen to live in Gujarat and Rajasthan in western India the truth of the Bible may be rejected from their and in Bihar in eastern India. Their name derives communities. Moghals remain connected with the from the word for “judge”. They are religious and larger worldwide Muslim community though their judicial leaders. They perform births, purifications, faith in the teachings of the Qur’an. marriages, deaths, and burial rites. Because of their elevated status, the Qazi have considerable clout Pray for dedicated disciples to go to the Moghal people, among Muslims. and for their hearts to be ready to receive their savior. Pray for Christ’s grace and truth to expand into the Pray for God to touch their leaders, so that they, in turn, entire Moghal society as they begin to experience the may reach those in their sphere of influence. Ask God to unconditional love of Father God and the direction of humble their hearts so that they will surrender to the the Holy Spirit.—KH ultimate judge over all.—CMW

110 111 DAY DAY 25 SHI’ITE MUSLIM BOHRAS IN INDIA MEMONS IN INDIA 26 1 tim 6:6-7, NLT he women’s section ev 3:17, 2 thes 3:5, NLT of the Shi’ite 18, NIV— Yet true godliness with Tmosque was awash RBecause you say, “I May the Lord lead iStock/FS-Stock contentment is itself with color! Bright am rich, and have your hearts into a full iStock/Subodhsathe great wealth. After all, we pinks, rich reds, beauti- become wealthy, understanding and brought nothing with us ful greens, vibrant and have need of expression of the love when we came into the blues where everything nothing,” and you of God and the patient world, and we can’t take except black predomi- do not know that endurance that comes anything with us when we nated the clothes of you are wretched from Christ. leave it. Bohra women as they and miserable and poor and blind and naked, I Pray that the Memons of prayed to Allah in seclusion from the men. advise you to buy from me gold refined by fire so Pray for the wealthy Bohras India will soon have that that you may become rich, and white garments so to find contentment in understanding that will lead Bohra people in India have chosen to separate that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of knowing Christ Jesus, the them to eternal blessings. themselves from other Muslims, whom they consider your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve only savior. trouble-makers, uneducated, and anti-social. Bohra to anoint your eyes so that you may see. people project themselves as educated, success- ful, giving, and peaceful, and they are generally Memon people in India are well respected, pros- considered in high regard by others in India. They perous in business, good-hearted philanthropists, are known as traders (the name Bohra means trader), independent, and shining examples to all who cloth painters, and business managers. come in contact with them. They establish welfare They are 100 percent Shi’ite Muslim, although they programs wherever they are found in India. They practice their own interpretation of the Qur’an, and seem to have need of nothing ... is this true? they are deeply influenced by their spiritual leader in all aspects of their lives. This unreached people group is 100 percent Muslim. They are devoted to their religion, and Complete Bible resources exist in Urdu and Gujarati; have built many mosques throughout India, however, their custom of setting themselves apart making it possible for others to worship as they from other communities keeps them from hearing worship. They are revered as “good people.” How and learning of the Lord Jesus Christ who wants to does Almighty God see them? be the primary influence in their lives. They often consider Christian beliefs and values a “Western Pray that these dear people, for whom Jesus Christ gave religion” that has nothing to do with them. his life, will see their nakedness before him and bow in repentance, submission, and thankfulness to the God Pray that God will raise up many prayer teams to adopt who loves them infinitely. Pray that the god of affluence the Bohra people, and pray until the blessing of knowing will be overthrown among the Memon people and that Jesus as savior and Lord spreads rapidly from family their families and communities will be overcome by his to family.—KH abundant riches of grace, mercy, and truth.—KH

112 113 DAY DAY MUSLIM AND HINDU MANIHAR 27 PEOPLE IN INDIA MUSLIM LOHARS IN INDIA 28 is 49:18, NLT heir hy are i thes 2:4, NLT name the Look around you and see, For we speak as Tdescribes LoharsW for all your children will iStock/ImageDB messengers approved iStock/indigosmx their occupa- blacksmiths come back to you. As surely by God to be entrusted tion; it by trade? They as I live,” says the Lord, with the good news. Our comes from attribute their "they will be like jewels or purpose is to please God, two Sanskrit origins to a bridal ornaments for you not people. He alone words Hindu god, to display." examines the motives of – “Mani” Vishwakarma our hearts. Pray that the Manihar (precious who, according to legend, The work of a blacksmith people will understand that stone) and Pray that God will send made iron they themselves are more “Kara” (maker). They live in harmony with other courageous messengers precious to the Lord than Muslim communities and even accept food and water chariots for other gods. The term Lohar originally with this mind-set and beautiful ornaments. from them. signified blacksmiths or iron workers. Others are heart-set to the Lohar farmers. This group differs from the Lohars in Manihar men and women work together in their people in India. Pakistan we prayed for last month. Most are Hindu, homes to manufacture and sell intricately designed though there are also Muslim and Sikh Lohars. bangles of all colors and sizes. Some have taken up Both communities need our prayers. other trades, but there are few businessmen or office workers among them. Several now send their children Lohars speak the primary languages of the states in to school. which they live. Few can read. Some favor formal Some of the Manihars are Muslim; they worship education while others don’t. Despite skills gained Allah and revere Mohammad, but also visit the tombs from years following the metalworking trade, they of Muslim saints whom they believe can intercede cannot compete with factory-made implements, with Allah on their behalf. Others are Hindu, and and many have lost their jobs and with it their both need prayer. self-esteem. Lohar women are considered inferior to men, but they work with their husbands and are How will they hear the gospel? Printed Bibles and allowed contact with other men. Though marriages Christian literature are of little use because very few are arranged at birth, the ceremony takes place later Manihar can read. Non-readers struggle to use the in life. internet to find the many audio resources available in their languages. Ask God to raise up messengers to take the gospel of Pray for the JESUS Film to be widely distributed among Christ to the Lohar in India. Pray that both men and the Manihar people. Pray for their family and clan leaders women will find their identity and self-esteem as they to open spiritual doors in their communities. Pray that the become members of the true family of God. Pray for Manihar will find the true mediator between God and entire Lohar families to embrace Christ together, and to man and respond with joy, repentance, and faith.—AHS disciple others who, in turn, will disciple still others until there is a disciple making movement.—AHS

114 115 DAY DAY 29 HINDU HOLER PEOPLE OF INDIA HINDU KUNBI PEOPLE IN INDIA 30 2 tim 1:7, NLT (This story (This story 1 tim 1:16-17, NLT illustrates truths illustrates For God has not given us a about this truths But God had mercy on me spirit of fear and timidity, people group.) about this iStock/Radiokukka so that Christ Jesus could iStock/JosuOzkaritz but of power, love, and people group.) use me as a prime example self-discipline. er of his great patience with s the even the worst sinners. Pray that this will be the Hhusband’s Kunbi Then others will realize that description of workers health was herdsmanA they, too, can believe in who will reach out to the desperate, used his him and receive eternal life. Holer people. so the stick to scrape off cow dung that pressed around the All honor and glory to God Hindu Holar mother prayed to her sun god for edges of his sandals, he related to the dung. It is how forever and ever! He is the favor. But what could a low caste woman like he felt – smelly, dirty, embarrassing, and untouch- eternal king, the unseen her offer a great god? She knew it was probably able. Yet the strongly dominant Hindu culture that one who never dies; he futile, but she had no other god to turn to. Maybe lived around him considers the cow holy, but his alone is God. Amen. he would accept her offering, but probably not. work with cattle was seldom appreciated, especially Would the god of creation hear her prayer? by the so called “forward” castes who held all the Pray for true humility and Probably not, she thought as she put away her power. The Kunbi people are poor, and they have God-esteem to come to religious paraphernalia. always been farmers and livestock herders. Kunbi people when they realize that they can be Most Holer are Hindu. In fact, 93 percent are Of the 1.2 million Hindu Kunbi, fewer than one forgiven by Father God and Hindu. Though they worship a sun god, they in 1,000 is a Christian of any sort, just like the receive eternal life with him! understand there is a god of creation and they other frontier people groups we will be praying for seldom approach him. The Holer people dwell through May. Kunbis are a barely detectible minori- mainly in Bihar and are also found in surrounding ty in the western states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. states. Most are farmers, while a few others are Social divisions like subcastes, sects, and clans regu- weavers or hunter-gatherers. Holer culture is in late their marital alliances. Hopelessness is common a state of great change due to the rapid changes amongst the rejected of society. Statistics show that happening in India right now. People with low farmer suicide is highest amongst the Kunbi. They status and no power like the Holar people are very smoke a kind of homemade cigar, resulting in a high vulnerable at this time. incidence of mouth and throat cancer.

Pray that the Holer people will find God’s refuge May the Kunbi abandon their deadly smoking addic- and favor in Christ alone. Pray for the Holy Spirit tions and instead be filled with His Spirit. Pray that to deploy believers to preach the hope of the gospel to their leaders will have dreams about the God of creation Holer families. May they know paradise in the presence who loves them and is calling them into his family. Pray for Kunbi disciples to make other disciples.—LR

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