Nepali, general in Korea, South

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 from the tourist industry or subsistence farming. Farming is tough in mountain terrain, and farmers barely make it. To overcome this situation, many have tried to earn a living abroad. Nepalis live in 22 countries, including South Korea.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Nepalis in certain countries have made it as actresses, models, fashion designers, military officers, professional athletes, and businesspeople. Those are the ones who have enough education and wealth to start anew. Few are this fortunate; most Nepalis in South Korea are trying to make money to send to relatives in Nepal. These people work in low-paying jobs in construction, restaurants, etc.In any foreign land, Nepalis form their own associations to come together for religious and cultural events. All over South Korea Nepalis celebrate festivals like Tihar, Dasain, and Teej.

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.However, there is a significantly higher percentage of Nepali Christians in South Korea compared to other countries. South Koreans have made it a priority to reach them for the Lord.

What Are Their Needs?

Nepalis in South Korea need the chance to hear the life-changing gospel in a land where they won’t face serious interference. Nepali Christians in South Korea have the chance to disciple others in Christ’s ways.

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