Introduction / History

Paik means "foot soldier." The Paik are a small caste formed for military service that began during the Delhi Sultanate. Traditionally, they were the landed militia. During peacetime they were warriors in charge of maintaining order.

Paiks were divided into three ranks distinguished by occupation and weapons. One division consisted of shield-and sword-bearers. The group who led distant expeditions carried matchlocks for firearms. Finally came the archers. When the British East India Company conquered the Raja (i. e., leaders) of Khurda in Odisha, however, the Paik lost their power and prestige.

The Paik live in Odisha and Bihar and speak Odia, the language of Odisha.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are mainly landless and work in agriculture, fishing, small business and as day laborers. They eat vegetables, fruit and rice.

Families arrange marriages and there is a bride price. The divorced and bereaved can marry again. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property with the oldest son becoming the head of the household. They have a community council to look after their needs.

Their literacy level is low so the gospel will need to be given in oral form. Their boys are educated more than their girls.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Hinduism is there religion. They will give devotion and prayer to any god they believe will offer them favors.

What Are Their Needs?

The Paik people need the spiritual hunger it will take to seek, find and embrace Jesus Christ no matter what the social cost.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual discernment and hunger among these Hindus who do not know what Jesus Christ can do for them. Pray that the Paik councils will open the doors for their people to put Jesus Christ first in their lives. Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers and intercessors for the Paik community.

Scripture Prayers for the Paik in India.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paik_(soldier)
https://www.jstor.org/stable/44143381