Brahmin Joshi in India

Introduction / History

The Joshi are a Brahmin group who lives in many states of Indian. The name Joshi means astrologer or light bringing in Sanskrit. During colonial times, the Joshi would travel from place to place telling the fortunes of the other castes.

Today some Joshi still are employed as astrologers. Often before a Hindu wedding, an astrologer is consulted for setting the best date and time. Most Joshi are no longer astrologers but serve in the highest levels of Indian society as politicians, actors, Hindu scholars, lawyers, engineers, computer scientists and writers. The Joshi encourage both their sons and daughters to get graduate degrees.

The primary language of the Joshi is Hindi. As educated Indians, they also speak English and other regional languages.

Where Are they Located?

Most Joshi Brahmins live in the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Smaller groups live in other areas of India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Brahmins are the highest caste or Varna in the Hindu religious system. They have a strong work ethic and frequently achieve leadership positions in any area they choose to pursue.

Brahmins are still deeply influenced by the traditional four stages of life; the first student stage is followed by the householder stage, where marriage, raising a family and being a productive member of society is the primary obligation of an individual. Once children are married there is time for spiritual concerns in the third stage of reclusiveness, which is followed (this is rarely practiced) by itinerant homeless wandering.

The Joshi Brahmins are endogamous, that is they will only marry another Brahmin. Families arrange marriage with the consent of the young persons. Sons and sometimes daughters inherit property. Their dead are buried or cremated. Most Joshi are vegetarians. Some will eat meat but not beef. Their main foods are rice, curries, vegetables, fruit and dairy products.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Joshi Brahmin practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain moksha or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Joshi visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers and incense to their gods. Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu and Khandoba, an incarnation of Shiva are given a special place of worship among the Joshi.

The main yearly holidays of the Joshi people are Holi, the festival of colors, Diwali, the festival of lights and Navratri, the celebration of autumn. Joshi Brahmins frequently officiate at these festivals.

What Are Their Needs?

The Joshi, like other Brahmins groups in India, need to be humbled and begin to see themselves as sinners. Like all other people of India, they need the forgiveness and supernatural peace and hope that only Jesus Christ can give.

Prayer Points

Pray that God opens the spiritual eyes of Joshi Brahmin hearts to the light and power of Jesus Christ.
Pray for Holy Spirit directed Christ followers to go to Joshi Brahmin communities and tell them about Jesus.
Pray for a disciple making movement to emerge in every Joshi Brahmin community.

Text Source:   David Kugel