GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Aheria of India

Sabtu, 13 Desember 2014

Aheria of India

The name Aheria means hunter. This was their main occupation prior to the 1920s. However, in 1920, hunting was banned, and this led to the disappearance of their principal occupation. The community is now engaged mainly in farming. They supplement their income by selling firewood. According to their traditions, they are of Rajput origin. The Aheri have a fairly strong caste council, the jati panchayat, which exercises control over the community. Almost all disputes are referred to the panch, who traditionally heads the panchayat. Violation of social or religious norms invites monetary punishment. Their traditional tribal deity is Vijaisan Mataji, whose temple the Aheri regularly visit.

Ministry Obstacles
Spiritual opposition can be expected as Jesus is presented to the Hindu communities of India. Workers need to be prayerfully prepared for this.

Outreach Ideas
Please pray that church planters will be able to include the Aheria as a priority community in the days ahead. Pray workers will not overlook this community-caste.

Pray for the followers of Christ
None of the Aheria has identified themselves as Christians to the Indian census. It's possible there are a few secret believers. Please pray the Lord will begin to stir the hearts of the Aheria to seek a Savior for their sin. Pray they will come to understand and believe God's Son, Jesus, is inviting them to receive eternal life if they will but place their faith in him.

Pray for the entire people group
The Aheria are a scheduled caste, one of the disadvantaged groups in India. Pray they will be able to overcome this stigma, and improve their living conditions. Pray especially for an improving literacy rate.

Scripture Focus
"And those who lead many to righteousness [will shine] like the stars for ever and ever." Daniel 12:3