Dom (Hindu traditions) in Bangladesh
Photo Source:
Sandy Saab - Flickr
Creative Commons
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Dom (Hindu traditions) |
| Country: | Bangladesh |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 30,000 |
| World Population: | 2,476,600 |
| Primary Language: | Chittagonian |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Dalit - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Dom tradition says they were cursed by their gods to a life of poverty for killing a cow. Most live in India, but they also live in other South Asian countries including Bangladesh.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Day laborers, street musicians and beggars; this doesn't sound like a very meaningful choice of vocations! But these are the choices for the Dom people across India. Dom women are definitely subordinate to the men in society, most often working in the home or supplementing the husband's income by begging. Women do, however, have a role in the ritual and religious spheres. These roles are reinforced by the manner in which Dom children are raised. Education is encouraged for boys but not for girls.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Dom people are committed Hindus, with particular devotion to the gods Baba Ramdeo and Bhainro. The Baba Ramdeo temple in Rajasthan is a major tourist attraction. Along with this devotion, each family worships a deity of its own choice. There are also a significant number of Dom animists who constantly make small animal sacrifices to deter ill luck. There are no more than a few hundred known Christian believers among the Dom population.
What Are Their Needs?
The Dom people need to put their faith, hope and dignity in the capable hands of Jesus Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray for a spiritual breakthrough among the Dom people.
Pray that God would break down centuries-old bondages that keep the Dom people entrapped. Pray that God would use the Dom people to bring others to faith in Christ.