Brahmin Pushkarna in India

Introduction / History

Brahmins are the highest of the four varna (caste groups), and they speak many different languages wherever they live in South Asia. There has never been a comprehensive analysis of all the different types and subgroups of Brahmins. But we know there are subgroups, including the Pushkarna Brahmins who live in West Bengal, Rajasthan and Maharashtra. They speak Marwari as their primary language. They once lived in Sindh, now part of Pakistan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Traditionally in the varna system Brahmins are considered as priests, but a temple priest is a lowly position that no Pushkarna Brahmin family wants their sons to aspire towards. Rather, there is strong pressure for higher education, particularly in computer science and engineering. Pushkarna Brahmins have a strong work ethic and are often leaders, whether politically, intellectually, spiritually or socially.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In some cases, Brahmin subgroups are defined by their theological distinctions such as Madhva Brahmins, who are defined by their dualist theology, though everyone does not actually hold those beliefs. 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 Brahmin might believe or disbelieve!

Most Brahmins respect the ancient (and many not-so-ancient) traditions of their forefathers. Some work to synthesize modern science and Hindu beliefs and practices. Few today have seriously studied, let alone memorized, the ancient Vedas; but one is more likely to find a person knowledgeable about the Vedas and other Hindu texts and teachings among Brahmins than among any non-Brahmin caste group.

What Are Their Needs?

There is a deep aversion to religious propaganda among Pushkarna Brahmins, and Christians are stereotypically propagandists. The trappings of Christianity are hugely problematic for Brahmins. Christ's ambassadors need to approach Brahmins in a loving, respectful way. It is vital for those who go to Brahmins to build genuine relationships; they must pray for Brahmin friends, and eventually pray with Brahmin friends. We must focus on Christ himself as a living person, and on the almighty God who was revealed by Christ as a loving father.

Prayer Points

Pray that the few Brahmin-background believers would exhibit the fruit of the Holy Spirit with those they meet so Christ will be honored and held in high esteem by these influential Hindus. Pray for the eyes of Pushkarna Brahmin hearts to be open to Jesus Christ. Pray for Christ to reveal himself to Brahmin leaders through dreams, visions and the Bible. Pray for Holy Spirit-directed Christ-followers to go to Pushkarna Brahmin communities. Pray for a movement to Christ to emerge among every Brahmin community in India.

Text Source:   Joshua Project