Parihar Rajput in India
PAR-ee-har RAHJ-put

The name Rajput is derived from the Sanskrit word rajputra, meaning "son of a ruler." Rajputs were the class of South Asian warriors and nobles for centuries. At certain times, they were the warriors who conquered kingdoms and defended the land; when possible, they enjoyed the life of nobles. When the British Empire began controlling parts of the Subcontinent starting in the late 1700s, they recruited Rajputs into their military. In the early 1970s, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi abolished the titles and property rights enjoyed by Rajputs. Today Rajputs love to reminisce about the military exploits of their ancestors. Many are still in military service or own land. Wealthy Rajputs own impressive hotels where tourists can be introduced to their proud history. Those of modest means own small businesses or work as wage laborers. Long-standing traditions as well as spiritual forces keep them away from the savior no matter where they live. Reaching the Rajputs would be enhanced by knowledge of India's history and how the caste system affects their worldview.

Ministry Obstacles
Parihar Rajputs have a strong sense of pride in their historical exploits. Even today they enjoy high status, which reinforces that pride. Pride is anathema to our Lord, and Rajputs will need to overcome this spiritual obstacle and accept the Kingdom of God like small children.

Scripture Focus
"And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for a quarter of the day; for another quarter of it they made confession and worshiped the LORD their God."  Nehemiah 9:3

Scripture Prayer
Pray that hearing the word will lead to deep repentance.

Prayer Focus
Pray that the small group of believers would be united in love around the truth of Scripture. Pray the Lord would give them a spiritual hunger, then satisfy that hunger. Pray that these Rajputs would understand the value of becoming part of God's royal family. Pray for a Holy Spirit-led humility for all Rajput communities to fall at the feet of the King of kings. Pray for a movement to Christ among the Parihar Rajput community.

Presented by Joshua Project
www.joshuaproject.net