Biar (Hindu traditions) in India

The Biar (or Bayar) community has two divisions: the Barhariya, who live north of the River Son, and the Dakkinahija, who live south of the river. These in turn are divided into several clans. Spouses are acquired through middlemen. The bridegroom's father receives a dowry. Vermilion is the symbol of a married woman. Mahadeva is the Biar's special deity. They worship Kali, Deeh and Aminal Devi as village deities. A Guru Bhagi performs the sacred duties of the community. Their major festivals are Ram Navami, Nag Panchami, Dussehra, Diwali, Til Sankranti and Holi.

Ministry Obstacles

Uttar Pradesh, the primary home of the Biar, has only a few Christian believers. Spiritual darkness is very deep.

Scripture Focus

"Their offspring shall be known among the nations, and their descendants in the midst of the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge them, that they are an offspring the LORD has blessed."  Isaiah 61:9

Scripture Prayer

Pray that those who live near today’s people group will want their spiritual blessings after they submit to the Lord Almighty.

Prayer Focus

Pray the Biar community will hunger to know the one true God, their creator. Pray they won't be satisfied with anything less. There may be a few secret believers among the Biar. If so, they need prayer.May the Holy Spirit be their teacher. Pray they will find each other for purposes of fellowship. Pray that gospel radio in the languages of the Biar will be widely available in the districts where the Biar live. Pray the Biar will be prepared for these radio broadcasts, to listen and understand.