Arayan in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Arayan |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 229,000 |
| World Population: | 229,000 |
| Primary Language: | Malayalam |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.90 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Hindu - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Arayan live mainly in the State of Kerala. They speak, read and write in Malayalam, Kerala's language.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Most of the Arayan are fishermen. Some own land and work in agriculture. The Arayan usually have the same shares regarding inheritance but sometimes women get less property. The wealthy among them cremate the dead while the others bury the dead. The children are educated to secondary level while some go further. They make use of welfare benefits for themselves.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Arayan people 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. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.
What Are Their Needs?
The Arayan people need to put all their trust in Jesus Christ, who came to give abundant life to all who call on his name.
Prayer Points
Pray that God will give the Arayan dreams and visions leading them to Jesus Christ. Pray that gospel materials and the internet will lead them to salvation. Pray for spiritual hunger and a willingness to be drawn to the Holy One of Israel.