Node in India
Send Joshua Project a photo
of this people group. |
Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
|
| People Name: | Node |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 4,000 |
| World Population: | 4,000 |
| Primary Language: | Kacchi |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Muslim - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
|
Introduction / History
The Node or Nodi or Nodhi are a small group of nomadic, cattle raisers who live in Gujarat, India near the Pakistan border. Their name means "gift of god." Many of the Node are giving up their traditional occupation and working as landless agricultural laborers. Some are moving to cities to work in factories. Modern India society does not encourage a nomadic lifestyle so the Node are changing to fit the times.
The primary language of the Node is Kachhi. Many also speak Gujarati so they can communicate with their neighbors.
Where Are they Located?
The Node live in Gujarat, a western state of India. Some also live in the country of Pakistan.
What Are Their Lives Like?
It is difficult to write about the lives of the Node because the lives of this Muslim people of west India are changing. Their ancient nomadic life of moving to find water and vegetation for their cattle is ending.
The Node are an endogamous group that encourages marriage within their society. At one time they traveled from place to place seeking water and grass for their cattle. They sold or trades their cattle for the things they needed like clothing, food and shelter.
Being constantly on the move, it was nearly impossible for their children to get more than a minimal education. As they settle down in cities and villages and take regular jobs, their children are beginning to receive the schooling necessary to advance in a prosperous India.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Node are Muslims. They follow the teachings of the Qur 'an and the prophet Muhammad. Their version of Islam is often mixed with folk religion. Muslims attempt to gain the approval of Allah, the Muslim god, though performing rituals and through good works. Muslims see Jesus as a human prophet not as the Son of God.
The two main holidays of the Node are the Muslim festivals of Eid Al-Fitr, the breaking of the month long fast of Ramadan in May or June and Eid Al-Adha, the four-day feast of sacrifice in August of September.
What Are Their Needs?
The Node need to hear the life-changing message of Jesus Christ in a way they can understand. They need help in educating their children and in finding new types employment as their nomadic life disappears.
Prayer Points
Pray that Indian Christians reach out to share the gospel and their lives with the Node.
Pray that the Lord leads Node leaders to be open to the claims of Christ.
Pray that God raises up Bible-believing churches in the Node community.
Pray the Lord leads Christians to pray for the Node.