Jewish, Marathi-speaking in United States

Introduction / History

Most Marathi speakers come from the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Many of India's states are named after a particular language, and Maharashtra, the state which includes Mumbai, is home of most of India's Marathi speakers. Marathi speakers led a great empire called the Maratha Empire in the 1600s and 1700s.

In the 20th century some Marathi began migrating to the USA. These were generally better educated Marathi who spoke fluent English. Many were professionals such a physicians, scientists, bankers and engineers. Most were Hindus, though there were some Jewish people among them. Though most Marathi speaking Jewish people have migrated to Israel, some found their way to Mauritius, Zimbabwe and the United States. Those in the U.S. are most likely to live either in New York or Los Angeles.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Marathi speaking Jewish people have provided a model for other South Asians to build community organizations and how to lobby congress. They have done a good job of preserving their culture, though they intermingle with other Jewish communities in the United States. Their celebration of Hanukkah involves the Indian tradition of serving sweets. They light an oil lamp rather than a candle during their Hanukkah celebration.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they have some different traditions in their rituals, Marathi speaking Jewish people share a lot with other Jewish communities. Like the others, some are more orthodox in their beliefs than others. Some take the Torah and the prophets very seriously, and they believe these came directly from God. Others believe that Judaism changes to fit the needs of modern man. Still others doubt the existence of God, but they remain part of the Jewish culture.

What Are Their Needs?

Marathi speaking Jewish people need the spiritual hunger it takes to seek and find their Messiah. They have the opportunity in the U.S., but few have looked beyond what they already know about the God of Abraham.

Prayer Points

Pray for their family and community leaders to crave the spiritual nourishment that can only come from a relationship with the only Messiah.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Marathi speaking Jewish people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.
Pray for the lives and culture of the Marathi Jewish people to evidence the rule and reign of the Kingdom of God as they open to the gospel, and for the beauty of Jesus to be seen in them.

Text Source:   Joshua Project