Brahmin Iyer in India

Brahmin Iyer
Photo Source:  Anonymous 
Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
People Name: Brahmin Iyer
Country: India
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 310,000
World Population: 310,000
Primary Language: Tamil
Primary Religion: Hinduism
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: Complete Bible
Online Audio NT: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia Forward Caste - Brahmin
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

Iyer Brahmins were once involved with all kinds of Hindu rituals, but not today. They do, however, maintain the rites and rituals associated with the dead. Iyers are cremated according to Vedic rites soon after they die. Like other Brahmins in south India, the Iyers participate in the Avani Avittam Festival. This festival is unique to Brahmins in this part of the world. Most Iyer Brahmin women have traded the traditional nine-yard saree for modern, convenient clothing. These women are also in the work force of southern India. This would not have been the case 50 years ago. Brahmins can be reached, but it must be done in a way that they understand. Early in his ministry Jesus’ disciples understood him to be a teacher, but many did not understand his lordship until later. Likewise, Brahmins will need to learn about who Christ is one step at a time.

Ministry Obstacles

The social status of an Iyer Brahmin can be jeopardized if they decide to follow Christ. Few would dare to take this step. Only those who are spiritually hungry will do so.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray that loving believers in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu would share the gospel with the Iyer Brahmins. Pray that these Brahmins would have meaningful, life-changing encounters with Jesus Christ. Pray for hundreds of Iyer Brahmin families to be blessed by following the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

Text Source:   Joshua Project