Introduction / History

The Kumhiar people (not to be confused with the Kumhar potters) are a fairly unknown people group. We know very little about their lives, but they are probably mostly farmers in this mountainous land.

Where Are they Located?

They live in Jammu & Kashmir, straddling India and Pakistan. Most live on the Pakistani side of the border, but a sizable minority live in India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many farm for a living in this high elevation where crops are hard to grow. Potatoes and wheat are important crops. It is a struggle to grow enough food in many parts of Jammu & Kashmir. Life is even more difficult since there is an ongoing low-grade war in Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan. For this reason, the Kumhiar people live with Pakistani military personnel around them as a constant reminder of the endless conflict.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Islam, the religion of the Kumhiar people, is both a bridge and an obstacle to the gospel. It's a bridge in that Muslims understand that they answer to the God of Creation and Jesus is an important prophet. It's an obstacle in that they firmly believe that the Bible is in error regarding how to find one's way into a right relationship with this same God. They do not believe there is a Holy Spirit to lead the way to a much-needed Savior. We know of no believers within this Muslim community, so pray that this will be the decade where the Holy Spirit penetrates their hearts and heads in a big way!

What Are Their Needs?

The Kumhiar people need peace in their land so they can provide education for their children and have the opportunities to thrive economically and spiritually.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord's lovingkindness to reach the Kumhiar people in such a way that they will understand and embrace it.
Pray for new opportunities to take Christ to Jammu and Kashmir to come about this decade.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to do what only He can do: Draw the Kumhiar people to the only one who can save them from their sins and give them joyful lives of righteousness.

Scripture Prayers for the Kumhiar (Muslim traditions) in Pakistan.

References

https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/17321/IN
https://www.peoplegroups.org/explore/GroupDetails.aspx?peid=41705