Sonar (Hindu traditions) in Nepal
Photo Source:
Steve Evans - Flickr
Creative Commons
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Map Source:
People Group Location: Omid. Other geography / data: GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Sonar (Hindu traditions) |
| Country: | Nepal |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 76,000 |
| World Population: | 9,592,400 |
| Primary Language: | Maithili |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.12 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Hindu - Sonar |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The name of the community is derived from the word sona meaning gold, and the people who work with gold are called Sunar or Sonar. Traditionally they are goldsmiths, but with the availability of better educational facilities the Sonar have become inclined towards education.
The Hindus among them are mainly in India, but smaller numbers live in Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka.
What Are Their Lives Like?
They claim to have social status close to that of the Brahmins.
They allow for divorce and remarriage.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Sonars are Hindus who worship whichever god they believe will bring them good luck and prosperity. Some are probably more philosophical in their spiritual lives.
What Are Their Needs?
A Sonar follower of Christ may lose his place in society and be ostracized. This is an important issue for high caste individuals. They need a group of people who are willing to embrace the only savior together.
Prayer Points
There are few if any Christian believers among the Sonar but pray for the ones that will soon be a part of this community.
Pray they be well instructed in the faith and will grow in maturity and in numbers.
Pray for the Sonar community to be humble enough to acknowledge their need for forgiveness of sin, and that they understand the provision for forgiveness that God has provided.