Nepali, general in Bahrain

Introduction / History

The original "Nepalis" came hundreds of years ago from India, Tibet, and Central Asia.In prehistoric days, a Hindu sage by the name of Ne established himself in the Kathmandu Valley, which has always been the center of Nepali civilization. He meditated and taught there. He was also the protector, or "pali," of this land. Thus, the term, Ne-pali began.Nepalis are not defined by language, but by their citizenship and their allegiance to the nation-state of Nepal. Though they have a trade language that has various names, you can't take one language and call it Nepali per se.Nepal is a very poor country. Living in the Himalayan Mountains, most either make their living by the tourist industry or subsistence farming. Farming is tough in mountain terrain. To overcome this situation, many earn a living abroad. Nepalis live in 22 countries including Bahrain, where they have served as migrant workers for decades.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Nepalis in Bahrain are making money to send to relatives in Nepal. These people work in low-paying jobs in construction, hospitality, and domestic work. Sometimes they face abuse by their employers who don’t pay them or force them to work unreasonably long hours under semi-slave like conditions.Nepalis have responded by forming their own networks, not only for protection, but as a way to stay connected with other Nepalis. They have social and religious gatherings and festivals. This is their lifeline, a place of happiness.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Nepalis practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all term for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among Brahmins.Nepali Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring; Diwali, the festival of lights; Navratri, the celebration of autumn; and Rama Navami, Rama’s birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

Nepali migrant workers need protection from God. As migrant workers, they are vulnerable to those who might exploit them.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give Nepalis a hunger and thirst for truth and righteousness found only in Jesus Christ.Pray for Nepalis in diaspora to be protected from those who might take advantage of them.Pray that this location will be a place where Nepalis can hear and embrace the gospel.Pray that Nepali Christians will disciple other Nepalis and the Muslims they meet in the workplace.

Text Source:   Joshua Project