Rodiya in Sri Lanka
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Rodiya |
| Country: | Sri Lanka |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 18,000 |
| World Population: | 18,000 |
| Primary Language: | Sinhala |
| Primary Religion: | Buddhism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Buddhist |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Rodiya people of Sri-Lanka were once known as the "untouchables" of the land. They were primarily hunters in the early years of the country and were known for providing meat for the king's table. However, one incident turned their lives to what has since led to downgrading their status.
As they see it, they are descended from a Sri Lankan princess who was ostracized for cannibalism. They praise her in songs and poems. Her depiction, however, is very much like the Hindu goddess Kali, recipient of human sacrifices, repugnant to Buddhists. Despite these questionable origins, the Rodiyas are beginning to be assimilated into the larger Sri Lankan society. While they constitute less than one percent of Sri Lanka's population, the Rodiya people of Sri Lanka have their own language and their own distinct Buddhist beliefs and practices.
What Are Their Lives Like?
As outcastes they seek alms. At times they have been denied work and even clothing! Yet work they do, dancing, juggling plates and making handicrafts. They are known for their skills in manufacturing crafts using cane. One such product they are particularly known for are the handmade drums. Drums are a significant part of Sri-Lankan culture to this day. With increased urbanization, their lot in life is improving.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Rodiyas are Buddhist. However, several sources trace them back to eastern Indian tribes who worshiped the Black Goddess. This so called goddess is known for their involvement in cult like activity and human sacrifices. Today, however, the number of Rodiya population is drastically decreasing. The minor number of people left follow the Buddhism philosophy.
What Are Their Needs?
Only a few believers have sought to minister to these people. Today few if any Rodiyas are followers of Jesus.
Prayer Points
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will give the Rodiya people a willingness to accept the eternal blessings of Jesus Christ.
Pray for a movement that will bless the Rodiya people with a relationship with Jesus Christ, who offers life to the full.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to the Rodiya people.
Pray that the few Christian believers will lovingly reach out to other Rodiyas to spread the good news.
Pray also that their hearts may not be hardened, and they will seek Christ with all their hearts and minds.