Rayeen (Hindu traditions) in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Rayeen (Hindu traditions) |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 1,700 |
| World Population: | 9,200 |
| Primary Language: | Bengali |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Hindu - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
According to their traditions, the Rayeens were expelled from their homeland in what is now Pakistan's Sindh Province during the Muslim conquest of the Indian subcontinent. They are also known at the Rai or the Rain. The Rayeen people are part of the larger Arain community. Though most are Hindu, there is a large Muslim minority and a smaller Sikh minority. Traditionally they were farmers, and most of them are still working the land.
Where Are they Located?
Hindu Rayeens live in India and Bangladesh. Those in India live mainly in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Rayeens have always been farmers, and most of them own land. There are only a few who are landless. Animal husbandry is part of what they do; the provide much of the dairy products for the state of Haryana. The Rayeens are part of the prestigious Arain community. They have 206 clans, which is quite a few even by South Asian standards.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Hindu Rayeens have their own regional deities such as Dada Roopa ki Samad and Sati Mata. They celebrate festivals like Holi and Diwali along with other Hindu communities. No matter what their religious affiliation, almost none of them have found the true Savior.
What Are Their Needs?
This prestigious community needs to find their way to the humble King of kings who paid for all of our sins and offers abundant life.
Prayer Points
Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Hindu Rayeen people.
Pray for a movement of Rayeen households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Rayeen people to the arms of Jesus.
Pray for workers who are filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit to go to the Hindu Rayeen people and help them start their own church planting movement.