Brahmin Ojha in India

Introduction / History

Ojha Brahmins specialize in casting out unclean spirits and telling fortunes. For that reason, they are only obliquely related to other Brahmin communities that have their roots in performing Hindu rituals. Traditionally Brahmins have five daily duties; to the gods, to ancestors, to all creatures, to humans, and to study. Thus daily worship (duty to gods) and chanting of sacred texts (duty to study) are an integral part of many Brahmins' lives, even if this is only a token routine for many.

Where Are they Located?

Ojha Brahmins are scattered across India where they speak many different local languages.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Ojha Brahmins are still deeply influenced by the traditional four stages of life; the first student stage is followed by the householder stage, where marriage, raising a family and being a productive member of society is the primary obligation of an individual. Once children are married there is time for spiritual concerns in the third stage of reclusiveness, which is followed (this is rarely practiced) by itinerant homeless wandering (sannyasa).

What Are Their Beliefs?

In some cases Brahmin subgroups are defined by their theological distinctions such as Madhva Brahmins, who are defined by their dualist theology, though everyone does not actually hold those beliefs. However, many Brahmin castes are made up of people who adhere to all the various philosophical and theological options espoused by modern Hindus, including hard core secularists and atheists. One can never predict what an individual Brahmin might believe or disbelieve!

What Are Their Needs?

Brahmins as an influential and generally well-to-do community are not unlike the middle classes of most places. Their main needs involve relational strains that are usually kept behind closed doors. Modernization is breaking down family units which have been the glue to society for many generations, and loneliness is increasingly a problem. They are expected to "achieve it all," but ironically, achieving it all can be empty.

Prayer Points

Pray for Christ to reveal Himself to Ojha Brahmin leaders.
Ask God to break the hold that the occult has on the Ojha people and replace it with devotion to Jesus Christ.
Pray that the Lord will open the hearts of the Ojha Brahmins so that they can enjoy the peace and joy that only comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Ask God to send faithful believers to reach out to the Ojha Brahmins.

Text Source:   Keith Carey