Introduction / History

The Gujarati are primarily classified as the inhabitants of the state of Gujarat, western India. For most of them, Gujarati is their native language. They are a complex people group, speaking various dialects and having many cultural distinctions.

Today there are significant Gujarati communities in some 27 nations. Many are in Africa but others can also be found in Myanmar, Malaysia and Iran. Living conditions in these countries vary; however, the Gujarati who have emigrated are usually from higher status groups and have maintained many aspects of their own culture.

Gujarat is one of the most industrialized states in India. Its lengthy coastline and numerous harbors have made it a focal point of travel and trade. The Gujarati are known as being resourceful businessmen. This has helped them to successfully emigrate and thrive around the world even in Iran.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Gujarati are divided into a number of social and religious groups. In Gujarat, villages generally lie in clusters and sub-clusters based on the "caste" system. The castes are actually culture groups, based not only on occupations, but also on such things as customs, manners and habits.

Most marriages in Gujarati societies are arranged. 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.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The majority of the Gujarati are Hindus; However, a significant number are Sunni Muslim. Those in Iran are Sunni Muslim. They are a religious minority in Iran, a Shia Muslim country.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bible is available in their language, but the Gujaratis must see Christianity lived out. Only then will they understand that true freedom and peace are found in Jesus Christ alone.

Prayer alone has the power to release these Hindus from the bondage of worshiping many gods. Likewise, only intercession can break the strongholds of Islam.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to raise up missionaries who are willing to share Christ with the Gujaratis.
Pray that Gujarati Christians will be bold and loving in their witness for Christ.
Pray for spiritual receptivity to the gospel among Gujaratis in Iran.
Pray that Gujarati businessmen will be evangelized and take the gospel others within their peer group.
Ask the Lord to raise up strong fellowships of believers among Gujarati speakers in Iran.

Scripture Prayers for the Gujarati in Iran.

References

https://iranicaonline.org/articles/gujarati
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indians_in_Iran