Introduction / History

Caste is something that we normally expect from the Hindu peoples like the Tamils. For Hindu communities, caste has its roots in ancient religious beliefs. For Buddhist peoples, there is a more subtle caste system that originated with the ruling elite. It was a way for them to protect their status, much like the guardians of the Europe's feudal system.

One of the communities that is on the lower end of the Buddhist caste system is the Kunnara people. These people were traditionally mat weavers. They migrated from Sri Lanka from southern India, probably hundreds of years ago.

Where Are they Located?

All of the Kinnara people now live in Sri Lanka where they have a small population.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though many of the Kinnara people still weave mats, there are many who are agricultural workers.

As Buddhists, the Kinnara believe that spiritual forces determine the events in their lives. They believe suffering is necessary as they seek to work their way to nirvana. Their worldview does not have a place for a loving personal God.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kinnara people are Buddhists. Buddhists do not have a personal, living god they worship, but they believe in spiritual forces which determine what happens to us in this life and the life to come. They believe that life is subject to suffering and uncertainty. Our existence is eternal, because we are reincarnated into another living being after death. We can eventually reach nirvana, a perfect state of bliss through meditation, wisdom and high morality.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kinnara people need the chance to put their identity in Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray for workers to go to the Kinnara people of Sri Lanka, and for their hearts to be ready to receive their Savior.
Pray for networks of believing families and fellowships that will throw the doors open for others to follow Jesus.
Pray for the Lord to bless the families among the Kinnara people with his presence and mercy.
Pray for believers among this people group to disciple others who will disciple still others.
Pray for Bible believing fellowships and churches among the Kinnara people.

Scripture Prayers for the Kinnara in Sri Lanka.

References

https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/21413/CE
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinnaraya
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caste_system_in_Sri_Lanka
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinnara