Brahmin Bhat in Nepal
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Brahmin Bhat |
| Country: | Nepal |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 500 |
| World Population: | 29,000 |
| Primary Language: | Maithili |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Online Audio NT: | No |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Forward Caste - Brahmin |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Bhat name is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word for "lord." They were once famous for their poetry. The Bhat Brahmins comprise only a tiny percentage of Nepal’s population. Most of them live in India, though there is also a small population in Bangladesh.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Many are landowners, but some live in poverty. As Brahmins they have access to many avenues of employment. You can find Bhat Brahmins in Bollywood entertainment, engineering, mathematics, business, and politics. Like most Brahmins they have a preference for high-paying and challenging jobs.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Bhat Brahmins practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. Brahmins tend to be philosophical in their approach to the spiritual realm. Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama’s birthday.
What Are Their Needs?
They are in desperate need of Christ, but almost no Brahmin would dare to follow Christ without the approval of their community. It will be difficult to find anyone with their status to reach them for Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Bhat Brahmins to humble themselves and cry out to God. Pray for the Lord to reveal Himself to them through powerful signs and wonders. Ask the Lord to establish His Church among them and use these influential people to take Christ to other Brahmin communities. Pray for believers with high status to go to the Bhat Brahmins.