Gosain in Bangladesh

People Name:	Gosain
Country:	Bangladesh
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	2,300
World Population:	1,595,200
Primary Language:	Bengali
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
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:

Introduction / History

Gusain comes from a Sanskrit word that means "teacher-disciple." They have high caste status, which is much more valuable in India and Nepal than it is in Muslim Bangladesh. Though few in number in Bangladesh, they live in the northern and central regions of that country. They are much more numerous in Nepal, and especially India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

At one time they were landowning farmers, but most have found better economic prospects in urban centers.

They eat grain, lentils, vegetables and meat except beef.

Families usually arrange marriages. They have one spouse. Most marriages only involve adults. If the wife cannot have children, the husband is allowed to keep his wife and marry a second woman. Divorce is allowed in cases of adultery, cruelty and impotence. Divorcees and the bereaved are permitted to remarry.

Boys are educated, and the literacy level among girls is low. Sons inherit property, and the oldest son becomes leader of the family. Women are involved in social, religious and ritual matters.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Gosain lead religious activities for the Hindu community. By tradition, they have removed themselves from material pleasures, live by collecting alms and looking after temples. They worship the Hindu god, Shiva.

What Are Their Needs?

As it stands, they are devoted to a religious system. They need to give their devotion to Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Prayer Points

Pray that Gosain people will see that their old systems of ethics and religion are not working, and that their only hope is in Jesus Christ.

Pray that intercessors worldwide will regularly pray for salvation of Gosain people.

Pray for Spirit-filled servants to disciple them, and plant churches among them.

Ask God to raise up entire families and communities until their culture is transformed to fully glorify God and represent His Kingdom here on earth.