Brahmins are the highest of the four varna (major caste groupings) in Hinduism. The historical developments of various Brahmin castes are not clear, as the history of the caste system itself is unclear. There was perhaps a caste system based on personal merit at one time before the hereditary caste system became dominant, as is seen in modern history. Brahmin castes became powerful in the early centuries of the Christian Era through alliances with kings, who granted them landed estates related to temples and temple service. There has never been a comprehensive analysis of all the different types and subgroups of Brahmins.
Traditionally Brahmins have five daily duties; to the gods, to ancestors, to all creatures, to humans, and to study. Thus daily worship (duty to gods) and chanting of sacred texts (duty to study) are an integral part of many Brahmins' lives, even if this is only a token routine for many.
There are many Brahmin subgroups. Among them are the Gujarati speaking Audich Brahmins who live primarily in India’s western states, but other parts of the country as well.
The Audich marry only within their Brahmin caste but will not marry within their clan or family. Families arrange weddings with the consent of the young people. Adult marriage is the norm. Weddings are elaborate rituals lasting days. The newly married couple generally lives near or with the groom's parents.
The Audich are vegetarians who do not consume alcohol. They encourage their sons and daughters to obtain graduate degrees and achieve leadership in business, in education, in science and in religious service. Many Audich continue their traditional roles as being Hindu priests and scholars; almost all of them did this in the 19th century. Some Audich still own large tracts of land that is cultivated by lower castes.
In some cases Brahmin subgroups are defined by their theological distinctions. However, many Brahmin castes are made up of people who adhere to all the various philosophical and theological options espoused by modern Hindus, including hard core secularists and atheists. One can never predict what an individual Audich Brahmin might believe or disbelieve!
It is very difficult to persuade Brahmins to put their faith in Jesus Christ alone. One of the reasons is they would have to fellowship with people from lower status communities; almost all of India’s Christians are from the lower strata. Therefore, they need a tremendous amount of spiritual hunger to consider the claims of Christ.
Pray for Christ to reveal himself to Brahmin Audich leaders. Pray for Holy Spirit directed Christ followers to go to Brahmin Audich communities. Pray for a movement to Christ to emerge in every Brahmin Audich community. Pray for many to be prompted to faithfully pray for the Brahmin Audich.
Scripture Prayers for the Brahmin Audich in India.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audichya_Brahmin
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
