A Call to Prayer
Unengaged Unreached Muslim Peoples of North India
ع 30 Days of Prayer
“Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, and come with me. See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig-tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me.” Song of Songs 2:10-13
God is doing a new thing in Northern India. For a number of years we have been speaking of the hidden bride – the 100’s thousands of unengaged, unreached, Muslim people groups.
Now we sense that it is time to mobilise some intense prayer and intercession as the North Indian Bride begins to make herself ready. In this so called desert we want to call out the flowers, hear the new song and feel the wind of the Holy Spirit blow. We want to see fruit in terms of new workers sent and new expressions of Christ started.
We are launching a 30 day period of prayer and fasting for North India starting Easter Sunday 31st March. Feel free to pray on the ground with us and think about mobilising prayer within your church wherever you are during this period. Introduction:
the heart behind it Haggai, “the Lord’s messenger,” You are invited to join the a ached encouraged the people: “Give careful prayer ini a ve as a fresh start for India. thought… You have planted much but Workers in the field have an expectancy have harvested li le…” The phrase “give the Kingdom of God is coming in a careful thought” is repeated five mes in powerful new way! (see Luke 10:1 - ) Haggai… The country of India is The ini a ve begins with the new life of men oned in Ester 1:1. Tradi on holds the Resurrec on, but can be prayed at the Apostle Thomas brought the Gospel any me you can join us. “From this day to the subcon nent in the first century. on I will bless you,” says the Lord (Haggai “We have expected much, but…” (Haggai 2:19) 1:9) we do not yet see the Gospel impact we long for… The Lord is again s rring This guide has a daily devo onal (some the spirit within his people as He did in of this is informa ve to try and help us to Haggai’s day (Haggai 1:14). The promise understand more of the needs amongst then was the glory of the new Temple these peoples), a daily Bible verse, a would be greater than the former house different people group focus and some (Haggai 2:9) Will you join us in expectant points for prayer. We hope that you may prayer He is about to do something new be able to spend some me and seek the in our days? Lord and ask Him what He wants us to pray for these peoples throughout these Habakkuk 1:5 & 3:2 say the Lord will do 30 days. God said to Ezekiel, 3:20: “I something new in our days… looked for someone among them who Amos 3:7 The Sovereign Lord does would build up the wall and stand before nothing without revealing his plan to his me in the gap on behalf of the land so I servants the prophets… would not have to destroy it, but I found Amos 4:13… He reveals His thoughts to no one.” Our ini al prayer is that the man. Lord will find people who will stand in Habakkuk 2:2 The Lord says write down the gap on behalf of these people! the revela on, it waits for an appointed Please join us and pray for 30 days! me… though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come. and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Day 1 Philippians 4:7
the man of peace
People Group Focus: Day 1 Name:
pathan Population: 11,198,000 When you enter…first say, “Peace Location: to this house.” (Sallam alaykum) Uttar Pradesh: 4,775,000 Bihar: 328,000 Rajasthan: 978,000 If a man of peace is there, your Madhya Pradesh: 855,000 peace will rest on him. Lk 10:5,6 Delhi: 238,000 Jesus gave the 72 disciples this Many believed because of the About: Often those using the entry strategy when he sent them woman; others said we no longer surname Khan are Pathan (or ahead of him as “lambs among Pashtuns). Rae Barelli, believe just because of her, now we Farraukabad, Sambhal, Rohilkhand, wolves.” Luke 10:3. The man of have heard for ourselves. Lydia Azamgarh. The Pashtun have played peace is a gate keeper for families (Acts 16:13-15) is an another an important role in the history of their region. & the larger community. He may example of a woman of peace. help create favor with authori es Cornelius (Acts 10:22-27); the jailer Sunni Muslims that are related or create an opening for the (Acts 16:29-34); and Jason (Acts historically to Pashtos in Pakistan and Afghanistan are mostly Pathans. hearing of the Gospel – in the 17:1-9) are other examples. Jason From their community have come places Jesus will come. The is an example of how the “person Muslim rulers, administrators, and Samaritan woman in John 4 was a of peace” can suffer by crea ng an soldiers. While many have moved out of the highlands in search of an woman of peace. Most of us are opening for the Gospel. This is why easier life on the plains, their familiar with the conversa on it is essen al we not only find these mountainous homeland continues to Jesus had with this woman, but people, but also pray God’s hand be be their citadel of strength and freedom. Pashtun society is based consider Jn 4:39 & 42: on them. on extended family.
Islam came to them as a great liberating and unifying force, freeing them from the cult of Brahminism Prayer Focus and the harshness of Buddhism. For this reason, their underlying faith and - Pray that God will raise many men steadfast devotion to Islam are very strong. and women of peace to set the pillars of his Church amongst the UUMPG’s of North India. “But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who Day 2 sees in secret will reward you openly.” Matthew 6:17-18
‘ ’ ramadan aka Ramazan
People Group Focus: Day 2 Name:
ansari momin Population: 10,004,000 The 5 pillars of Islamic faith Location: include: Saying the creed, praying Uttar Pradesh: 4,424,000 Bihar: 1,825,000 five mes a day, giving alms, Uttarakhand: 132,000 pilgrimage to Mecca (if you are Gujarat: 127,000 able) and… Ramadan: a month of Delhi: 102,000 fas ng from food & pleasures earlier each year. Please pray from sunrise to sunset. Many About: Ansari is Arabic derived from workers will be able to share God’s Ansar which has a literal meaning of Muslims exchange ea ng during idea of an acceptable fast described "those who support". Ansar the day for feas ng at night. originates from the Medinan people in Isaiah 58. “Is this the kind of fast Because Muslims are a minority who assisted the prophet I’ve chosen…?” asks the Lord. Is 58: 5 Muhammed as he migrated from community in North India, the fast Mecca to Medina. These people later is not as strictly enforced as Muslims celebrate the comple on of became his emissaries and soldiers. Urdu speaking Muslims found in Muslim majority countries. the fast with an end-fas ng holiday. Uttar Pradesh and the Sindh region Ramadan is the actual name of a Many poor North Indian Muslims of Pakistan. Are said to be Sunni but month of the Islamic calendar, also follow folk Islam. Mainly illiterate find the end-fas ng holiday more and poor. Varanasi District is the which has 10 less days / year than special than Islam’s more significant centre of their community. They are the Western calendar. This means holiday, known as Baqri Eid or Eid al traditionally weavers and are said to the Ramadan fast begins 10 days have been converted from hindu Adha. That holiday commemorates weaving castes. Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son.
Prayer Focus Pray we can explain how God’s interven on in the Abraham story of Genesis 22 (and Passover Exodus 12) foreshadows God’s redemp ve work on the cross. "Having an eternal gospel to preach to those who live on the earth, and to every nation and tribe and tongue and people." Day 3 Revelation 14:6
People Group Focus: Day 3 Name:
Sheikh Population: 76,868,000 This city was established in Location: approx. 1600 by prince Murad, Uttar Pradesh: 10,236,000 Bihar: 9,249,000 the son of the Mughal Emperor Rajasthan: 2,811,000 Shah Jahan. It is situated 167 km Madhya Pradesh: 2,094,000 (104 mi) from the na onal capital, Delhi, on a tributary of the Ganges About: After the advent of Islam in South Asia, some high caste River. The city is nicknamed Pital (Brahmins, Muslim Rajputs and Nagri, ("City of Brass") for its Khatris) converted to Islam in the Punjab region and adopted this title. famous brass handicra s industry. They are known as Punjabi Shaikh (Punjabi). Majority of the Punjabi Shaikhs are urbanized and detached from the traditional agricultural ancestry. However, a few families also cultivate their own land in the Prayer Focus western districts of Punjab. The main professions of the urban Punjabi - With nearly 70% Muslims & 30% Shaikhs are business and public service, and are stereotyped for their Hindus churning centuries of un- reputation for business acumen. reconciled strife, city is always - Pray for the Spirit of God to bring moments away from a riot. las ng peace and hope through The Khawaja Shaikh, with their sub- - This massive urban center is emerging believers who are division the Chiniotis and the bombarded with poverty, courageously searching for people Qanungoh Shaikh are two such pornography, materialism, and of peace in Muslim neighborhoods communities. The Shaikh can be broadly grouped into five corrup on grinding on the most & their family networks in Western communities. Three of these vulnerable & crea ng conflict U.P. communities are the Siddiks, Farukis among families. - Pray for the exis ng leaders of this and Abbasi who are often - The influence of both the Sufi & work to grow the DNA of descendents of Arab immigrants. The orthodox Muslim theological genera onal discipleship. other two are the Chistis and centers of Bareilly & Deoband: That Kuraishis communities who tend to - God is pouring out His Spirit (Joel be mainly from converts to Islam. those seeing dreams of Jesus & miracles would take the next step 2:28) in this city; pray also for fruit of faith in Jesus. that will last. John 15:16. “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Day 4 John 8:32
People Group Focus: Day 4 Name:
sayyid Population: 7,092,000 Location: Deobandi is the name of a city & Uttar Pradesh: 1,557,000 Sunni (branch) school in North Bihar: 438,000 India. It is also the name of a Rajasthan: 504,000 revivalist movement which has Gujarat: 256,000 spread beyond, but is mostly College in Lucknow. The Deobandi About: The Sayyid are one of the centered in the region. The movement is known for its harsh larger segments of Muslims in India. movement was inspired by Shah stance against many prac ces The word literally means "master"; Waliullah (1703–1762); the Darul common in the Indian the closest English equivalent would Uloom Deoband school was begun subcon nent. These include be "sir" or "lord". Some Muslims use the term sayyid for the descendants in 1866. celebra ng the Prophet of Abu Talib, uncle of Muhammad, Mohamed’s birthday, and calling on tracing back to the Arabs. Sayyid The school / movement the prophets and saints for ancestors migrated to India from developed as a reac on to Bri sh different parts of Iran. The Sayyid assistance. Tablighi Jamaat, a may have an inadequate colonialism , which was believed Muslim reform organiza on, began understanding of who Jesus truly is, by a group of prominent Indian as an offshoot of the Deobandi the Son of God, deity. Pray the scholars to be corrup ng the movement. Its incep on is believed Sayyid community will increasingly hunger to truly know and follow Isa Islamic religion. The founders of to be a response to Hindu reform (Jesus) as he is referred to in the the Deobandi movement were movements, which were Koran. influenced by the Wahhabi considered a threat to vulnerable movement. and non-prac cing Muslims.
The school has gradually become the second largest focal point of Prayer Focus Islamic teachings and research Pray that followers of Christ will a er the Al-Azhar University, soon emerge from these schools Cairo, Egypt. Graduates have and become well established in the opened thousands of madrasas faith, pray that as they study (schools) throughout South Asia. seeking the truth, that they will find An affiliated school is the Nadwa the True Gospel and receive revela ons of Jesus. “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.” Day 5 Psalm 46:4
People Group Focus: Day 5 Name:
Qassab Population: 1,082,000 Aligarh is best known for Aligarh Location: Muslim University, which was Uttar Pradesh: 815,000 founded by Sir Sayyid Ahmed Bihar: 19,000 The book says Aligarh has several Rajasthan: 6,000 Khan in 1875. It is an English Madhya Pradesh: 4,900 medium school, which includes Muslim towns in a single city, and is Haryana: 36,000 modern science prominently in its not the “bas on of Muslim Uttarakhand: 28,000 separa sm” many Hindu’s imagine. Delhi: 124,000 syllabus – contrasted with the syllabus of Deobandi which dates About: Traditionally butchers from from the middle ages. It was which they get their name Qassab, created to help Muslims students which means butcher in Urdu. Their community name Qassab is also an find employment in the imperial Arabic word which means ‘to cut’. civil service. Yet, many of Aligarh’s They claim that their origin is from graduates helped create Pakistan Arabia. They are majority Sunni. Qassab found in Kashmir claim to be as a separate Muslim na on. converted Brahmins, those found in Uttar Pradesh say they are of Arab Muslims in Indian Ci es (2012 descent. Urdu speaking they are found in cities and rural areas. Harper Collins) cites the city as Largest community is in Western one of India’s most riot-prone. It Uttar Pradesh. Many of them are now engaged in business or work as has a declining lock / hardware daily-wage labours. Both child and industry which iden fies poorer adult marriages are in practice. Muslims from the wealthier, Prayer Focus be er educated students, faculty - Please pray both wealthier educated & staff of the university. Muslims & those with limited resources will both recognize Jesus The poor area is characterized by as their Savior. a lack of government - Pray the city will recognize & fulfill infrastructure & community God’s special purposes as it creates a development ini a ves. new iden ty of poten al for itself. “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, As a Day 6 bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” Isaiah 61:9-11
marriage
People Group Focus: Day 6 Name:
bhisti Population: 519,000 My married Muslim women Location: friends always ask me if my Uttar Pradesh: 457,000 marriage was an ‘arranged’ Uttarakhand: 13,000 marriage or a ‘love’ marriage. I Rajasthan: 32,000 Madhya Pradesh: 8,500 share it was a ‘love’ marriage then Gujarat: 2,300 ask about theirs. All have been ‘arranged’. India’s government About: The term Bhisti is derived sta s cs report that 95% of all from the Persian word Bihisht, marriages in India are arranged. meaning paradise, and they were so Women always discuss which one named on account of the services is be er. Whether their marriage they rendered to thirsty soldiers. was arranged or not, their They claim their ancestry from deepest longing in marriage is to Jesus compared himself to a Hazrat Abbas Alamdar, who went to be valued and esteemed. In most bridegroom coming for His bride, fetch water from a pond in a skin-bag whom He loves. (Is 62:5, Ma 25: to quench the thirst of the followers cases this is not true. The of Imam Husain on their way to challenges for women in India are 1-13, Rev: 21: 2) Damascus. The Bihishti belong to immense. Women's rights the Sunni sect of Islam. They ac vists say that discrimina on venerate their village deity, Khera against women here in India Dev. begins even before birth.
Prayer Focus Pray for married women and their daughters, so they would come to know the True Bridegroom of their lives. The One who loves them, esteems them, and desires to prepare a room for them in our Father’s House. Isaiah 62:5 ‘…as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.’ "Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” Day 7 Jeremiah 32:17
statistics
People Group Focus: Day 7 Name:
moghal Population: 1,617,000 The North Indian state of U ar Location: Pradesh is the most populous Uttar Pradesh: 610,000 Bihar: 23,000 state in India. According to the Rajasthan: 126,000 2011 census, it has a popula on of Luke 4:18 says ‘The Spirit of the Delhi: 121,000 over 200 million people. Uttarakhand: 21,000 Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good The popula on density is 828 news to the poor. He has sent me About: The Moghal are a well- people per square km making it to proclaim liberty to the cap ves known Muslim community of North one of the densest states in the and recovering of sight to the blind, India. According to sources, they to set at liberty those who are were originally from Mongolia and country. Muslims make up the oppressed.’ came to India along with the Mughal largest minority group (19%) in emperor Babar, the founder of the Mughal empire in India. They are the UP. Many workers feel the divided into the Shia and Sunni sects percentages are much higher. of Islam. They adhere to sharia law as regards the rules of marriage, Prayer Focus divorce, remarriage, and inheritance Literacy and employment are 2 - Please pray that Jesus is of property. They celebrate all crucial indicators of socio- proclaimed among the millions of Muslim festivals with great economic well-being and they are Muslims of North India. enthusiasm and devotion. cri cally low in Muslim communi es. Here in the UP, as compared to other states in India, they are more deprived socially and economically. As we look at these sta s cs, we are also reminded this is an Un- engaged area of the world- meaning very few workers and no known work among many Muslims peoples. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Day 8 John 13:35
distinctives/
People Group Focus: Day 8 Name:
qazi Population: 721,000 “… the world will know the Father Location: sent Jesus & loves (His disciples).” Uttar Pradesh: 80,000 Jn 17:23 Bihar: 486,000 “… they will all know (Jesus), from Delhi: 60,000 the least of Gujarat: 4,900 them to the greatest.” Hb 8:11 Madhya Pradesh: 1,500 Every city or people group is
About: The Qazi community derive dis nguished by some unique their name from the term qadi which characteris c(s) or event(s). Gospel. Yet, through the centuries, means "judge." They have a tradition Lucknow has two famous the church has not sparked the of being the religious leaders or historical sites: The “Bara movement we all long for. What is imams among the Muslim groups. Imambara,” is a Shia building limi ng our impact? What will The majority of the Qazi live in Bihar. complex built in the late 1700’s as facilitate greater indigenous The Qazi are skilled in art of Islamic religious rites and tend to perform a public relief project. The integra on? An old Chris an the traditional ceremonies for the Residency was the site of the chorus declares, “They’ll know we greater Muslim community. They ba le for independence / are Chris ans by our love.” perform the birth, purification, “mu ny” of 1857. The city is also marriage, death and burial rites. famous for “chikan,” & “Tunday Kebabi:” Moghul style embroidery The Qazi are Sunni Muslims of the Hanafi tradition. They faithfully follow and seasoned meat. India boasts a Prayer Focus the Muslim practice of praying five Chris an presence since the - Please pray the Chris ans of North times a day. There is a need for Apostle Thomas first brought the education. There is also a lack of India will be known by this employment among them. The Qazi characteris c, “by our love.” are a very strategic community to bring to faith in Christ as they would - Pray both na onal believers & be natural spiritual leaders as expat workers will be salt & light followers of Isa. Terrific influence among many Muslim groups could in the larger community. be made if a Qazi man were able to remain in the community and be a - Pray we will maintain the unity Christian Qazi leader. With Christ all Christ has entrusted to his body things are possible! (Ephesians 4:3) AND be frui ul in invi ng others to Jesus. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for Day 9 the blind, to set the oppressed free” Luke 4:18
honour killing
People Group Focus: Day 9 Name:
rajput urdu Population: 2,481,000 In an honour/shame society how Location: one does something is more Uttar Pradesh: 1,569,000 important than what one does. Jammu and Kashmir: 205,000 Rajasthan: 114,000 There are expecta ons put on Haryana: 194,000 each person and they are taught Uttarakhand:65,000 not to ques on those in authority. does not want to ‘deal’ with the When a person does something About: issue. The Rajput Muslims get deemed shameful, it is the duty of there name from the larger Rajput people who are one of the four main that person’s superior to take care The Bible teaches that God’s Hindu divisions of South Asia of it. Usually the first response is peoples. Rajput in Sanskrit means, crea on brings shame upon Him by 'son of a ruler or king'. Rajput to try to hide the event so no one disobeying His commands. Society Muslims today are primarily an else finds out what happened. If teaches that God is bound by His agricultural community. As land has the event becomes known, been lost, a growing number have honour to punish those who excuses come next and then come become employed in service and brought shame on His good name. even wage labour jobs. As people of public humilia on. Thankfully, Jesus took our shame to influence and social status, the Rajputs are a key people to reach the cross while restoring the In the most extreme cases, the with the Gospel. As converts to Islam honour of God. they may be more open than many one in authority must kill the one traditionally Muslim peoples to hear who shamed the group. Many and receive of the love of Christ. mes when this extreme event happens, it is seen as the only way that honour can be restored and if Prayer Focus it is not done, that family lives with the shame caused by the -Please pray God will open their event. At other mes, death eyes to see the value in these comes in the form of suicide; lives. either by the perpetrator or by -Pray they will learn how Jesus has the one in authority who taken all our shame on the Cross. “Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live; do not let my hopes be dashed.” Day 10 Psalm 119:116
- rural life problems in coming to faith
People Group Focus: Day 10 Name:
meo Population: 737,000 India is a na on of villages. Even Location: the ci es consist of countless Uttar Pradesh: 40,000 Haryana: 34,000 small communi es named a er a Rajasthan: 552,000 popular building, a VIP, or famous Madhya Pradesh: 104,000 religious person. In the state of U ar Pradesh there are over who comes to faith is rejec ng the 107,000 villages with popula ons family and the community that up to 10,000. Hindu temples and provided for them all their lives. About: They were converted Rajput various shrines can be found in When a person comes to faith, Hindu's and have lived for a rejec on is experienced in different every village. millienium as muslims. Orignally ways. For example, a village they spoke Mewat but now they Likewise, Muslim mosques and believer is o en forced to marry mainly speak Urdu. Often they blend Islamic religious sights are evident aspects of Hinduism and Islam. someone from his/her old religion. In Uttar Pradesh they are found in in many of the places. However, Or the person is not allowed to use Rohikhand and Doab, Mathura, signs of Chris anity are very the village well or is refused work. Bulandshahr Ditrict, Meerut District, scarce. Very, very few villages On several specific cases, people Moradabad, Bareilly, Rampur and have a church building and many who came to faith were refused Pilibhit districts. They are mainly burial in both the Muslim and the farmers and labours. villages do not have any believers at all. Local families o en think Chris an cemeteries. The first that anyone because they changed their religion and the second because they were not born in the church.
Prayer Focus Please pray that local families understand the community that exists in God and that those who want to believe are allowed to do so. “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Day 11 1 Samuel 16:7b
the sunnis
People Group Focus: Day 11 Name:
teli Population: 1,631,000 Sunni Muslims are in the Location: majority around the en re Uttar Pradesh: 1,185,000 Gujarat: 156,000 world. They adhere to the Uttarakhand: 141,000 Qur’an a li le closer than their Haryana: 35,000 counterparts. Sunnis emphasize About: family, ritual, religion, and The word 'Teli' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'tailika' or outside appearance. 'tails', which means oil pressed from seeds. The community are traditional manufacturers of mustard or sesame Just like many others, Sunni oil. Hindus who convert to Islam are people confuse the physical with called Roshandaar or Muslim Teli. the spiritual. In their mind, According to their tradition, their ea ng food without washing ancestor Luqman was apprenticed to the Biblical King David. Luqman is one’s hands is a sin. In the same They also o en act as their own said to have first started the oil way, more emphasis is put on judge and jury, never considering extraction profession. It is said that the words that are recited in God’s perspec ve on one’s ac ons Luqman's ancestor was the Prophet Ayoub (Biblical Job).Oil is a useful prayer than on the a tude of and inac ons. connection between Christians and the person praying. For this Telis. The physical and spiritual reason, Sunni Muslims fall into significance of oil in the Bible can be the trap of us versus them. a key point for sharing the gospel with them. Prayer Focus Please pray that Sunnis are able to understand the difference between the things that are spiritual and the things that are physical. Also pray that they maintain the spirit of the law while accep ng God’s grace both for themselves and for others. “No longer will they build houses and others live in them, or plant and others eat. For as the days of a tree, so will be the days of my people; my chosen ones will Day 12 long enjoy the work of their hands.” Isaiah 65:22
muslim jobs
People Group Focus: Day 12 Name:
Kunjra Population: 920,000 As a whole, Muslims tend to Location: occupy the less glamorous jobs. In Uttar Pradesh: 391,000 Bihar: 474,000 the me of Islamic rule, they Utarakhand: 1,900 worked as skilled ar sans, without Madhya Pradesh: 24,000 an equal in their given fields. However, mes and needs have
About: The Kujnra or Rayeen are changed. The jobs in which Sunni. The majority have traditionally Muslims excelled in the past are been engaged in horticulture and no longer the ones that are in gardening, although this has changed in recent years. The great need. marriage symbol for women is the nose-ring. The Rayeen women, Added to this, Muslims have jobs and are only able to earn a besides performing household small pay from them. Because the chores, assist their menfolk in always been leery of outsiders agricultural operations, cattle- which mean they did not variety of jobs are limited, many rearing, and in other economic emphasize educa on, especially people are forced to do the same activities. They favor formal from an outside source. job. Which means there are a lot of education but most of the children very small shops compe ng with drop out after the primary or Therefore, the people were taught secondary level, mainly due to a family job and nothing more. each other. Today, some Muslims economic reasons. Granted, this fact is changing find employment in other countries more and more each year. as general labourers. But most Muslims work in the trades or as Due to religious prejudice, there farmers. are certain jobs that only Muslims are willing to do. For example, selling milk, working with leather, Prayer Focus butchering, and the like. Although Please pray that God blesses the a few people have become Muslim people with the successful within these trades, opportuni es they need to succeed most remain stuck in these type of by financially and spiritually. “Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have Day 13 been revealed.” Revelation 15:4
the shias
People Group Focus: Day 13 Name:
manihar Population: 545,000 Proud, defiant, minority, resistant, Location: unified, ght knit. These are Uttar Pradesh: 466,000 words that define the Shia Bihar: 50,000 Uttarakhand: 8,400 Muslims of India. This sect of Rajasthan: 1,700 Islam makes up about 20% of the na on’s Muslims and is a definite About: The Manihar have been minority around the world. known for their occupation of making and selling glass, lac or ivory They believe there were 12 bangles for many years. Due to the which mix formal religion with limited availability of elephant tusks righ ul leaders a er Mohammed cultural beliefs and prac ces. Prior for ivory, many bangles and beads and the 12th one never died, but now are manufactured in plastics. instead took on a spirit form. This to the Bri sh ruling India, Shia Today some Manihar take other jobs Muslims ruled in North India. including tailoring. The literacy rate spirit form does good deeds During that me, there was even a among the Manihar tends to be low. around the world and will take on They speak primary Urdu. Siddiqi human form when Jesus returns. connec on with the Free Masons of can be a common surname. They America. This connec on was so This Caliph (leader) will join Jesus are Sunni Muslims and tend to share ght that a town in America re- foods with other Muslim families but in leading a special prayer for all named itself a er a current capital traditionally do not allow marriage Muslims. Shia have many other outside their community. city in India. interes ng beliefs
Prayer Focus
Please pray that the Shia people unite around the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray that they are prepared for the second coming of Jesus and not just one of their former leaders. “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Day 14 Matthew 19:14
muslim children
People Group Focus: Day 14 Name:
Faqir Population: 55,000 Jesus welcomed children with Location: opened arms, caring for them and Uttar Pradesh: 13,000 Gujarat: 6,900 protec ng them, was of Delhi: 6,400 importance to him. Madhya Pradesh: 8,800 Rajasthan: 5,500 The treatment of the children of
India, the next genera on is a huge area for concern. Child About: The Fakir, or faqir derived Abuse appears to be a growing from faqr, Arabic for “poverty”. Faqirs problem, however, it is difficult to or Madaris are followers of a know whether it is in fact celebrated Sufi saint, Zinda Shah of Makanpur in Awadh. The Faqirs increasing or raised awareness were wandering dervishes teaching means more cases are reported. Islam and living on alms. The term With over 50% of children labourers in the world. Child labour has become a common Urdu, Begali claiming to be sexually abused and Hindi byword for "beggar". is much higher in Muslim There is also a distinct caste of and of those 50%, 20% reported communi es. This genera on Faqirs in North india, descended severe abuse. needs our prayers. from communities of Faqirs who took up residence at Sufi shrines. Human Rights groups say that there are over 20 million sex Prayer Focus workers in India. Each year 5 million children join the sex trade. - for raised awareness of the need Some mes they are sold by family to protect children. members out of despera on and - for an increase of NGO's and need of food. Many Indian global bodies working to prevent children are trafficked around the child abuse, child sex trade, child world o en to Arab and Gulf trafficking and child labour. states to work as sex slaves. India - For the silence to be li ed from is sadly the home to the largest such a sensi ve topic, o en ignored number of child due to cultural taboos. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual Day 15 forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12
conflict between sects
People Group Focus: Day 15 Name:
bhatiara Population: 259,188 There is a saying within Islam: ‘Me Location: against my brother’, ‘Me and my Uttar Pradesh: 159,000 Haryana: 5,600 brother against our neighbor’, ‘My Bihar: 5,000 brother, my neighbor and I against Gujarat: 2,300 the world.’ In other words, people can have mul ple enemies at the same me and be able to unite likely to meet and cause a About: The Bhatiara of India have a confronta on. Ul mately, the only population of 259,188. They are part against a perceived greater threat way for violence to end is have a of the Oriya people cluster. This even in the midst of internal strife. people group is found only in India. So many mes on the TV news we heart change within the people Their primary language is Awadhi. involved. As long as there is an hear about the figh ng between The primary religion practiced by the emphasis on us versus them Bhatiara is Islam. There are very few Sunni and Shia Muslims. believers amongst this people but mentality, hatred will con nue and there has been initial or concentrated Although the details vary in each figh ng will be the result. church planting among them within the past two years. individual event, conflict is based Ask the Lord to raise up workers who on a perceived threat from some will bring the truth and love of Christ other group. So, o en specific to these people who currently have Prayer Focus no witness among them. groups believe that their way is Pray for God to show Himself to the right and are not willing to Please pray for peace and love Bhatiara and for the Gospel to move compromise with anyone who among all peoples. Pray that people forward with power among them. sees it differently. learn about how God loves each person equally. In many North Indian ci es, people live among their religious affinity. Although they may go to the same markets to shop, their communi es are very segregated. During religious ceremonies, police specify routes for the various sects so that they are less “If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life - this is my petition, and the life of my people - this is my request.” Day 16 Esther 7:3
- women for such a time as this
People Group Focus: Day 16 Name:
Arain Population: 128,000 Esther’s story in the Bible speaks Location: of the key role women can play in Uttar Pradesh: 55,000 Haryana: 21,000 their community’s salva on. Let’s Punjab: 20,000 think about her character! Uttarakhand: 16,000 She had faith, integrity, She recognised her dependence on About: Their community is highly determina on, courage, wisdom God and the need for the prayerful educated and intellectual. They work and discernment. She was an in cultivation and in agriculture- support of the community when based business. Most have sufficient orphan who became influen al she called them to fast. farming land and cultivate sugar and was in the right place at the She brought about a radical change cane, wheat, rice, mangoes and right me. She was prepared, mustard. Dairy production is an from within the community! important part of their subsistence ready and willing to fight for Mordecai, her uncle, represents the also. They are a Muslim people with righteousness and her people in men of the community. He was a a broad knowledge of Islam. They the face of poten al danger to humble, respected man of God who are mainly related to the Barelvi herself. Her confidence in both movement of Sunni Islam that loved his people and became their originated in the Indian subcontinent. God and Mordecai encouraged champion. He was trustworthy and her to be an obedient risk-taker. suppor ve towards Esther, but also challenging and encouraging. He recognised her calling and guided her into it!
Prayer Focus Spend some me medita ng on Esther’s story. Ask God to raise up Esthers and Mordecais among the Ms of North India, in every UUMPG, and every community. “He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” Day 17 Isaiah 61:1
the caste system
People Group Focus: Day 17 Name:
makhmi Population: 63,000 The caste system is something that Location: most people associate with Jammu and Kashmir: 63,000 Hinduism, however, the caste system is just as alive in the Muslim communi es in North India. Caste is from the Hindu lower castes in hope About: The Makhmi of India have a determined by birth, this of an improvement in their social population of 63,000. They are part determines a persons status which standards, it rarely happened. The of the Tibetan people cluster. This people group is found only in North cannot be changed. It is usually a Caste System is a major barrier for India. Their primary language is persons surname that indicates a the gospel. Par cularly for those of Ladakhi. The main religion practiced family's caste. A persons caste high caste who find comfort in their by the Makhmi is Islam. Very little dictates social status, career high social status and superiroity research has actually been done about the Makhmi people. Most of op ons, who they can marry and over the lower class Muslims. To them live in Ladakh. The Makhmi lifestyle. The main Muslim castes convert from any Muslim caste to people are completely unreached are: follow Jesus is seen to bring shame and unengaged. on the en re family, to convert 1. The Sayyeds: The descendents of when from a high caste not only the Prophet Mohammad. brings shame, but loss of all rights 2.The Pathans: The Mar al race and power being in that caste brings. and the warriors. 3. The Sheikhs: Converts who ll the land and are mainly in Prayer Focus businesses. Pray that those from the High Caste 4. The Workers: Barbers, cooks, may be reached so they can take Ironmongers etc. the gospel through the barriers of Caste. Pray for those low caste Though people may state that they are from a certain caste, e.g. Sayyed, families who have lived genera ons it is not always accurate that they are descendents of Mohammad. Some down trodden and forgo en, that families may convert and take on a name that would provide them with they may know true hope and higher caste status. The majority of the Indian Muslim Popula on came freedom. “To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” Day 18 Proverbs 21:3
muharram
People Group Focus: Day 18 Name:
baloch Population: 59,000 The year 680 AD is a long me Location: ago, but to many Muslims in India Uttar Pradesh: 39,000 Gujarat: 11,000 that year is very important. A er Haryana: 4,100 the death of Mohammed in 632 Delhi: 1,300 AD, there was a dispute about who should lead the people. Some About: Their history is a mystery. Some have traced their origins to said it should be a direct Nimrod, son of Cush (Noah's descendent of Mohammed and grandson). But while some things others said it should be someone are uncertain, we do know that they who was spiritually worthy. first moved to the region in the twelfth century. During the Moghul This dispute came to a head in among the Muslims of India, they period, this territory became known 680 AD at the ba le of Karbala in remain very outspoken. So on the as "Baluchistan." present day Iraq. first ten days of Muharram (an Islamic month), north India The Baluch traditionally earn their becomes a buzz of ac vity which As the story goes, the reigning living by a combination of farming culminates on the 10th day. and semi-nomadic shepherding. Caliph brought 3000-4000 troops They usually raise sheep, cattle, or to fight against 120 supporters goats. Agriculture is limited because On that day, large groups of Shia of the harsh climate; nevertheless, it and family members of men beat their bodies un l they plays a large role in the economy. Muhammad. Their leader was bleed. They say they feel no pain The chief crop is wheat. Muhammad’s grandson, Hussein. because they are one with the spirit Today the Shia Muslims talk, sing, of Hussein. and write poetry about the 120 who fought so valiantly.
This event is important in North India is because the Muslims who Prayer Focus ruled before the Bri sh were from Please pray that people come to the Shia sect. And even though know that Jesus has taken all our today they are in the minority punishment. “Speak Lord for your servant is listening” Day 19 1 Samuel 3:10
your servant is listening
People Group Focus: Day 19 who in his wisdom was ready to Name: help Samuel to recognise the voice of God. kashmiri Population: 7,117,000 Samuel awoke in the night “Eli did Location: you call me?” “No child, go back Jammu and Kashmir: 6,949,000 Himachal Pradesh: 80,000 to sleep.” he replied. Delhi: 24,000 “Samuel,” the voice came again, Punjab: 3,900 to which Samuel responded “Eli, I About: The Kashmiri mainly live in am here.” rural regions; only about one-fifth live in cities. They are generally tall, fair Eli in his wisdom realised this was skinned, and have different features the voice of God and instructed to Indians. Most of the Kashmiri are peasant farmers. They raise rice, the child to respond. wheat, maize, barley, lentils, and Across the Muslim world and here fruits such as apples, peaches, and apricots. Today, there are less than in India we hear hope-raising 1,000 known Kashmiri believers. The stories of God calling people by Islamic stronghold over them will name out of their sleep. Think only be broken down through prayer. These precious people who live in a about the story of Samuel, the highly volatile area of the world need unlikely child, whose ear was to meet the Prince of Peace. ready to hear from the Lord. Eli,
Prayer Focus Pray for Samuels to be raised in North India, those ready to hear God's call and to respond, with “Speak Lord for your servant is listening,” “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Day 20 Father seeks.” John 4:23
People Group Focus: Day 20 Name:
sudhan Population: 446,757 The Sufi sect of Islam started Location: about 70 years a er Mohammed’s Jammu and Kashmir: 446,757 death in 632 AD. At that me, About: The city of Rawalakot (still formal Islam taught that God was disputed between Pakistan and India), the capital of the Sudhan removed from His crea on and tribe, suffered significant damage that He was to be worshiped only from the 2005 Kashmir earthquake. according to strict rules. Within other things that are not normally Sudhuns are a tightly knit possible via formal religions. Sufi this line of thought, God only community, and female education is leaders are seen as spiritualists, highly valued. There likely are no interacts with the prophets, who being able control the spirit world followers of Christ among the are deemed perfect. Therefore, in order that it benefits some at the Sudhan community. But please pray those of us who are not perfect for those that the Lord will soon call expense of others. to Himself, that they will clearly have no chance of experiencing understand the grace and truth God. offered through faith in Christ, resting fully on His finished work on the With this as a background, Sufis cross, and the power of His life Prayer Focus within them. Focused, sustained wanted to experience God and prayer is needed to prepare the not only worship Him as a Please pray that the Sufi Muslims hearts of the Sudhan community to removed deity. have an experience with the true receive the Gospel of Christ when it comes. According to their teachings, and living God. And through that there are many ways to experience they learn what it experience God but most of those means to worship Him in spirit and ways include chan ng, burning in truth. incense and going through a number of rituals.
‘Experts’ are paid to conjure up the presence of God for all types of worshipers. They also a empt healings, give advice, and do many “And a erward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.” Day 21 Joel 2:28
- multi coloured dream
People Group Focus: Day 21 Name:
dhobi Population: 907,000 Joseph had a dream that changed Location: the course of his life. He later Uttar Pradesh: 534,000 Bihar: 155,000 interpreted dreams that changed Uttarakhand: 12,000 the des ny of a people. Haryana: 9,500 So much of muslim culture
About: The Dhobi are traditionally crushes the dreamers of this the clothes washers. Today more genera on, lack of hope, poverty, than most South Asian communities caste, compe on due to growing the Dhobi have maintained their popula on, lack of crea ve traditional occupation of washing clothes and running laundry educa on, means that so many of services. Though some small this genera on no longer allow success has come in ministry to the themselves to dream. Today pray Hindu Dhobi, the Muslim Dhobi have no known work amongst them. In for a pouring out of God's spirit on general, the attitude of the Dhobi to North India, that sons and education is quite good and literacy daughters will speak God's word into the Muslim communi es; “And in some locations is higher than a erward, I will pour out my Spirit other Muslim communities. on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.” Joel 2:28
Prayer Focus Pray for the dreamers of this genera on, pray for transforming mul -coloured dreams, that will not only change the lives of the dreamer but of his people. “For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.” Day 22 Proverbs 2:10
muslim children and education
People Group Focus: Day 22 Name:
gujar Population: 445,000 India's largest concentra on of Location: Muslims live in Northern India. Uttar Pradesh: 364,000 Uttarakhand: 41,000 They are described by Indian Haryana: 19,000 government reports as one of the Punjab: 18,000 most marginalized and About: As various Muslim groups discriminated against minority in began invading India and Pakistan in their country. They are the eleventh century, the Gujur underrepresented in poli cs and Hindus converted to Islam. Ever since their conversion to Islam in the educa on considering their eleventh century, the Gujur have numbers. In North India, Muslim's been bound by a life of poverty, literacy rates are 36%/49% in Prayer Focus illiteracy, and social oppression. In urban/rural areas respec vely. general, they are a simple, - Pray for the majority of these inoffensive people with a generous, precious children, especially girls, hospitable nature. Today, most of the But girls are even less likely to get who s ll do not get any opportunity Gujur living in India live as law- an educa on as this very to learn to read because they come abiding shepherds and farmers. Unfortunately, they are still belittled conserva ve and uneducated from desperately poor families. by those of higher castes (social people group will see work at classes), and often labeled as home more important for -Pray that once they learn to read, thieves and vagrants. daughters than for their sons. But these young people will have the there is hope as the enrollment of opportunity to read the Bible. Muslim children in schools has seen a sharp rise. Quo ng a Muslim parent, “There is a passionate urge to get educa on (for their children).”
Thank God for this new genera on of young Muslim parents. “After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in Day 23 front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes...” Revelations 7:9
’ shakil s story
People Group Focus: Day 23 Name:
chamar Population: 16,000 Mohsin was 16 when I first met Location: him. His bright open eyes soaked Uttar Pradesh: 7,400 in every word as I shared the Bihar: 6,500 gospel with him. He told me of his mother who was possessed and About: Being a minority religious group in a primarily Hindu country, had regularly been involved in Muslim Chamars know what witch cra , frequently following discrimination feels like. Their name the advice of the witch doctor. derives from Chamakara, meaning "a worker in leather." In South Asia I didn't meet Mohsin again for people say the Chamars, be they almost 9 years, when I did the 25 Hindu or Muslim, are criminally minded and unintelligent. year old that greeted me was far from the bright teenager I Such beliefs should be expected remembered. He looked older regarding those who process leather than his years and appeared For our struggle is not against flesh in a land where Hinduism teaches tormented and red. Mohsin and blood, but against the rulers, people to venerate cattle. Most shared of the 9 years that had Chamar Muslims make their homes against the authori es, against the passed and how his mothers' in the Indian border with Nepal. This powers of this dark world and 'illness' plagued the home. The is a rugged, mountainous area that against the spiritual forces of evil in requires great vigor and endurance. witch doctors recipes, po ons and the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 spells were forced upon everyone in the household. 'I have spirits "This kind can come out by nothing living inside of me' Mohsin but prayer and fas ng." Mark 9:29 acknowledged.
Sadly this is a story we hear too o en. In the mosque you can see men spinning their heads around and Prayer Focus around in hope of freedom from Pray today for freedom for those the bad spirits 'jin' that torment who are cap ve and live a them. tormented life. “I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs.” Day 24 Isaiah 41:18
lucknow
People Group Focus: Day 24 Name:
banjara Population: 153,000 Lucknow is the capital city of U ar Location: Pradesh State, which is both the Uttar Pradesh: 131,000 Uttarakhand: 13,000 most populous state in the Haryana: 3,900 country and contains 25% of all Muslims living within India. Specific areas of the city that contain high concentra ons of About: The Muslim Banjara have While accurate popula on Muslims and require special prayer twelve clans. They maintain cordial sta s cs are difficult to obtain, include: Chowk, Daliganj, Aliganj, relations with neighboring the latest figures on Lucknow’s communities and share water Mahanagar, Aminabad, Husainabad sources with them. They belong to popula on place it at 4.86 million and Kashmiri Mohalla. the Sunni sect of Islam. To follow people. Muslims represent 38% Jesus is to risk upsetting community of this popula on of which 70% harmony, and to risk losing family Poverty is an enormous challenge and friends. There are probably no are Sunni and 30% Shia. The within Lucknow with 500,000 present followers of Jesus among majority of Muslims living in people living in slums and an the Muslim Banjara community, but Lucknow live in highly addi onal 100,000 people pray for those the Lord will soon call concentrated areas, with li le to Himself. Pray they will have homeless. While there are wealthy nothing to do with the deeds of infrastructure, and high poverty. areas within the city, the vast darkness, living as children of light. majority of the popula on live at Sunnis, Shias and Hindus all tend extreme poverty levels. Amongst to live within separate pockets of the poor, those who are rickshaw the city with borderlines between drivers, pickers, and street groups occasionally erup ng into sweepers are amongst the poorest violence and rio ng. Lucknow is a and most likely to be homeless. somewhat unique in that there has been more violence between the two segments of Islam, than between Hindus and Muslims Prayer Focus (which has been more the norm in other areas of the country). Pray for an revival over this city, dreams and transforma on. “The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.” Day 25 Isaiah 41:17
People Group Focus: Day 25 Name:
baghban Population: 997,249 Ajmer is a city that is located in Location: the south east of the state called Uttar Pradesh: 420,000 Rajasthan. Ajmer has a popula on About: The name Baghban comes from the Urdu Baghban, which of around 551,360. means one who looks after the garden. The Baghban are a Ajmer is surrounded by the horticultural community residing mainly in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Aravalli Mountains. It is a They mainly identify themselves as pilgrimage centre for the shrine of an independent occupational group the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin of the Kunjra, a community of greengrocers who sell vegetables Chish . and fruits. Among the Baghban, daughters receive a smaller share of Ajmer is a prominent pilgrimage the ancestral property than the sons centre for Northern Indian Shia Pilgrims firmly believe that by and the eldest son succeeds to the Muslims and it is believed that by late father’s authority as head of the visi ng Ajmer-Sharif, all their family. The Baghban women in visi ng “Ajmer-Sharif” (the main wishes are fulfilled. Millions of addition to carrying out all the mosque monument where tomb people visit Ajmer every year in domestic duties contribute directly to of Khwaja Moinuddin Chish ) 3 hope of having their problems the family income by selling fruits mes is equivalent to one Haj taken away from them and wishes and vegetables in the local markets. (pilgrimage) to Mecca. fulfilled.
Prayer Focus Please, pray that as pilgrims go and bow down in reverence to their god, that a flashing revela on of Christ will come to many. That they may find the real and only One who can take all anxie es away, Jesus. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith- and this not from yourselves, it is a gift of God-not by works, so that no one can boast.” Day 26 Ephesians 2:8-9
pillars
People Group Focus: Day 26 Name:
kamboh Population: 1,603,000 There are 5 pillars of Islam that Location: Mainly in the Punjab are obligatory and founda onal for Muslim life. About: The Kambohs are an ethnic They are: community mainly of the Punjab region. They may relate to the *The Shahada- the creed that you
Kambojas, an Iranian tribe known to say to be a Muslim the people of Iron Age India and mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts *Salah- daily prayers that are and epigraphy. Kamboh or Kamboj is done 5x a day frequently used as a surname in lieu *Zakat- almsgiving of the sub-caste or the gotra name *Sawm - fas ng in the month of by many Kambohs of Punjab. Ramadan *Hajj- pilgrimage to Mecca at least A good number of Kambohs are once in your life me also found in the Doab region of Ephesians 2:8-9 says ‘For it is Uttar Pradesh, especially in the town of Marehra, and call themselves In North India, there are Sunni by grace you have been saved, Zuberis. Kambojs are known as and Shi’a Muslims. Both agree on through faith- and this not adventurous and enterprising the essen al details of these from yourselves, it is a gi of people. Therefore, as a colonists, pillars, but Shi’a do not refer to servicemen, politicians and God-not by works, so that no businessmen, they have also them by the same name and have spread, after the partition, into addi onal prac ces that they one can boast.‘ various parts of India. must perform. To learn more about these prac ces you can refer to Shi’a Twelvers and Ismailis.
Through the pillars of both Indian Sunni and Shi’a Muslims believe Prayer Focus they are leading a good and responsible life. These good Let us pray for both Sunni and Shi’a deeds will hopefully be enough Muslims of North India, that they when they meet God at their would discover and receive the gi death. of God-Jesus’ work upon the cross. ‘‘I am the Lord’s servant’.. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’’ Day 27 Luke 1:38
Marys
People Group Focus: Day 27 Name:
abdul Population: 32,000 Jesus’ mother, Mary, played a key Location: role in God’s plan for salva on for Uttar Pradesh: 4,600 us all! Bihar: 25,000 In God’s eyes she was highly favoured! In the world’s eyes she About: Being of a lower social was anything but! She was status has caused many Abdul families to survive on charity. In unmarried, and young, but some communities they are alms accepted God’s promise, delivered gatherers while singing and by the angel, with such beau ful ‘‘I am the Lord’s servant’.. ‘May it drumming or selling perfume. It is humility and faith! be to me as you have said.’’ said that during Ramadan some (Lk 1 :38). Abdul wake up early and go village Pray that God will raise up women to village playing their dafali Pray for the Josephs in their lives - (instrument) and singing the names in Muslim communi es across husbands, fathers, brothers - who of Allah. Traditions like this have North India who will accept God’s will be honourable and protec ve given them the title 'wandering incarnate Word and play key roles towards them, just as Joseph was singers' or 'a class of wandering in bringing to birth and nurturing towards Mary. Pray that they would Muslim saints' in some places. They the body of Christ, the church store up the promises and words of are Sunni Muslims. No believers among their people – women with known amongst this people. God in their hearts, just as Mary the faith and humility to say did. Pray that God would give understanding, wisdom and discernment to them and cause them to guard the promises in prayer!
Prayer Focus Pray for God’s hand to be upon them and their spiritual offspring, protec ng, guiding, teaching and fulfilling every purpose that He has for them. “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Day 28 John 1:29
eid al adha
People Group Focus: Day 28 Name:
bhand Population: 31,000 Eid Al Adha, the religious fes val Location: of sacrifice is referred to as Bakri Uttar Pradesh: 21,000 Bihar: 5,800 Eid by Muslims of North India. It honors the willingness of About: They are an occupational Abraham to sacrifice his son as an lower caste people who have been act of submission to God’s singers, dancers, actors and jesters command, and his son’s since the days of feudal Kingdoms in willingness to be sacrificed. The India. Today the Bhands are still holiday occurs at the culmina on known for their singing, dancing and of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca story-telling in many areas of north and central India. The Bhands are or Hajj. especially known for their folk-dance, folk-music and playing of the drum It is not on the same day every and flute. Most Bhand, however, can year because the Islamic Calendar be found to have left their traditional is based on a lunar calendar. The occupation and moved into small holiday moves 10 days earlier business selling of household goods or toys. Because of their prominent every year. The morning of the traditional position in the community Eid begins with the men praying at in performing, the Bhand community the mosque. So many come, they ought to be more open to outside spill outside of the mosques into communication and likely the Gospel the streets nearby. which Abraham’s sacrifice A er praying, each household is foreshadowed. expected to sacrifice a goat. The day is then spent visi ng and sharing special foods with family and friends. North Indian Muslims say they sacrifice for God’s happiness. If only they knew this does not bring God Prayer Focus happiness. God wants them to Pray the Muslims of North India will know of of His greater and more come to understand this incredible perfect sacrifice, gi . “I will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive. I will set junipers in the wasteland, the fir and the cypress together, so that people may see and know, Day 29 may consider and understand, that the hand of the Lord has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.” Isaiah 41:19,20
the seeds are in the ground
People Group Focus: Day 29 Name:
bhat Population: 225,000 Over the centuries, countless Location: Chris ans have prayed in villages, Uttar Pradesh: 190,000 Bihar: 21,000 towns and ci es across North Gujarat: 3,100 India. There is no way of knowing Jammu and Kaskhmir: 2,400 which places have been prayed in, About: Bhat were expert historians, or for, and which have not. No and the literature of India owes the doubt there are many places preservation of its oldest treasures to these people. They recited poems where no believer has been, but and ballads (in a typical high-pitched every prayer has been heard by sing-song tone) in the courts of God, and has not been wasted! rulers and chiefs.
The Bhat were known to ridicule North India is, and always has those who offended them with been, a hard place for anyone God says ‘The seeds are in the sarcasm. They are converts to Islam who takes the Great commission ground!’, and ‘Ask for rain in the from the Rai Bhat community. The community is now mainly made of seriously. Many have died here, Spring me’. We have had an small peasant farmers, traders and become discouraged and le , or unusually high number of rain government servants. They cultivate persevered despite the hardships. storms in this early spring season in wheat, sorghum, paddy, maize, 2013! pulses and vegetables. In villages, Whether believers stay for a short they are sharecroppers. me or forever, and whether they feel they have done well or not, every prayer they have offered in faith has been heard! Like seed sca ered by farmers, these Prayer Focus prayers are lying in the ground Join with us in asking God for the awai ng the right me to right amount of rain, for the seeds germinate, grow and be to ‘germinate’ wherever they have harvested! been sown in prayer, and for a mighty harvest among the peoples of this region. “Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” Day 30 Matthew 9:38.
the harvest is plenty
People Group Focus: Day 30 Name:
gujjar Population: 771,000 Where would India be today if Location: William Carey had given up when Jammu and Kashmir: 684,000 Himachal Pradesh: 76,000 a minister rebuked him: "Young Uttar Pradesh: 2,700 man, sit down; when God is pleased to convert the the lost About: In Kashmir, Himachal world, He will do it without your Pradesh and Uttaranchal areas, Gujjars are mostly pastoral nomads, help or mine." Carey listened having no villages or other instead to Jesus who says "Go into permanent settlements. They roam all the world and preach the behind their herds of cattle on carts gospel to all crea on." -Mark and horses and make their temporary settlements under tents in 16:15 forest areas. They move to high altitude hills in summer while came CT Studd wrote many years ago: back to pastoral grounds of lowlands in winter. Some of them are very Only one life, ’twill soon be past, well-to-do and rich landlords. Only what’s done for Christ will last. You and I are here only a few Generally Gujjars are tall, strong and short days. Make them count! sturdy people with fair skin color and sharp features. They are considered wrestlers from birth in some areas To finish this 30 days we would while their other favorite sport is to like to invite you to pray for more lift huge, heavy stones. laborers in this vast field, pray they be raised from the local church or interna onal community. Prayer Focus Why not ask God if you are to be Amazingly, Jesus gave us the exact the answer to this prayer and join prayer for this need, so please pray us in laboring amongst the it today: "Therefore pray the Lord Muslims of North India? of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest." Ma hew 9:38.