The Gujarati are primarily classified as the inhabitants of the state of Gujarat, western India. For most of them, Gujarati is their native language. Today there are significant Gujarati communities in some 27 nations including Malaysia. Living conditions in these countries vary; however, the Gujarati who have emigrated are usually from the higher, wealthier castes and have maintained many aspects of their own culture. They are often involved in trade or in operating small businesses. The Gujarati are known as being resourceful businessmen. This has helped them to successfully emigrate and thrive around the world.

The Gujarati are divided into a number of social groups. The Hindus, who make up the largest group, are divided into a number of castes or jatis. The structure of their society is based o­n the principles of "purity and pollution." The priestly class, known as the Brahmans, are in the highest position, while servants and laborers are in the lowest caste. Unfortunately, despite various degrees of acculturation, most retain their strong cultural ties. Most marriages in Gujarati societies are arranged. For the Hindu Gujarati, caste and social rank are very important considerations. The Muslim Gujarati are o­nly allowed to marry those from selected groups. They also practice purdah, which means that the women are required to wear veils and remain isolated. Marriage is considered to be an alliance between two families, not just two individuals.

Although textiles, plastics, chemicals, and heavy machinery are produced in Gujarat, 70% of the working class are farmers. Wheat and grain are staple crops, and rice is produced in wetter areas.

The majority of the Gujarati are Hindus, regardless of their location in the world. However, approximately 30% have maintained their Muslim ties. The Gujarati Hindus hope to better their positions in this life and in the life to come by exhibiting charity, being devoted to the gods, and showing mercy to fellow humans and cows. On the other hand, the Gujarati Muslims (usually Sunni), often despise the Hindus. The Muslims look down upon their worship of millions of gods and are not hesitant to express the prejudices they feel.

In many countries where there are Gujarati communities, there are no missionary agencies targeting this people group. Sadly, even in Christian countries (such as Kenya) where there are three missionary agencies working among them, the Gujarati remain zero percent Christian. The Bible is available in their language, but the Gujarati must see Christianity lived out. O­nly then will they understand that true freedom and peace is found in Jesus Christ alone. Prayer alone has the power to release these Hindus from the bondage of worshipping many gods. Likewise, o­nly intercession can break the strongholds of Islam.

PRAYER POINTS

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