Silpkar (Hindu traditions) in India

Silpkar (Hindu traditions) in India

Like "Native American," Silpkar is a generic name, meaning "craftsman" due to their historic craftsman roles. Although many are in the profession, others are beggars. They are a Dalit caste or "harijan" meaning "child of God," and they are at the bottom of the caste hierarchy. They live on the outskirts of villages, hamlets, and towns, speaking local languages, worshipping family, village, and regional gods. Heads of household are family priests since Brahmins will not serve them. They also engage in the occult and exorcism of spirits, practicing shamanism.

Ministry Obstacles

Caste consciousness isolates them socially, and rugged terrain isolates them physically.

Outreach Ideas

Crafts need markets, thus Christian entrepreneurs could help establish a market cooperative and be witnesses to the craftsmen among them. Christian professionals could deliberately witness to Silpkars in professional associations. The JESUS Film shows Jesus casting out demons, and that may speak to them. Evangelism could focus on power encounters.

Scripture Focus

"Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just."  Psalm 51:4

Scripture Prayer

Pray that leaders among this people group will understand the depth of their sin just as King David did.

Prayer Focus

Pray that the few believers among them will grow spiritually and have the love and boldness to share Christ with others. Pray that this entire group would seek to truly become Children of God (John 1:12). Pray that they would have dreams and visions of Jesus. Pray for a movement to Christ among the Silpkars.