Kahar (Hindu traditions)

It seems likely that the Kahar caste is a remnant of one of the ethnic groups that occupied the valley of the Ganges River before the Aryan invaders came from the north. They claim to be descended from one of Brahma's sons and from a warrior caste, which would give them a good social standing if other Hindu communities accepted this. The Kahar have several stories about the derivation of their name. Some anthropologists maintain that the name combines the words kandh, meaning shoulder, and ahar, meaning food. Their traditional work has been as palanquin (a seat borne between poles on the shoulder) carriers or water carriers. Palanquins were for carrying "important" people in comfort.

Ministry Obstacles

The worldview of the Kahar is very different from the biblical worldview. For example, they have no concept of resurrection, a key belief for Christ followers. They also live mainly in Uttar Pradesh, one of India's least-reached states, with very few Christian workers.

Scripture Focus

"Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."  Psalm 127:1

Scripture Prayer

Pray that this people group understands that all their efforts are worthless unless they subject them to the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray that the Kahars would understand that Jesus desires to bless their families and clans, not harm them. Pray for the ability to raise their standard of living and be ready for the challenges of the 21st century. Pray for bold and loving workers to go to them until they have their own movement to Christ.