Maring in India

Introduction / History

Maring is one of the Naga tribes of northeastern India. They speak the Maring dialect.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Agriculture is the backbone of the Maring economy, though some are moving to cities where they take modern jobs. Those who have an education can obtain jobs in government and education.

One cannot marry from their mother’s clan or own subclan, but inter-subclan marriages within a clan are allowed. Unlike most other tribes, it is the eldest brother of the bride who selects a groom for his sister. Ideally, marriages involve a sister exchange, which minimizes the bride price. Husbands and wives live in different homes until their first child is born. At that point, the husband builds a home for the couple and their child. Boys are initiated at age 8, when they begin to be taught the ways of the Marings.

Each year, the Marings have the Khong Kaap archery festival, and every five years, there is a bigger archery festival. Festivals also include games, storytelling, folklore, singing, dancing, and feasting.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The traditional religion of the Maring is shamanistic. It involves the worship of ancestral and nature spirits. Their ceremonies involve rituals and sacrifices. They are officially Christian, though their faith is highly compromised.

What Are Their Needs?

Urbanization is a mixed blessing. It allows better access to needed medical and educational facilities, but it also means losing one’s language and culture.

Prayer Points

Pray for a massive revival to hit every Maring village and household.
Pray for hundreds to be raised up with a defiant faith in Christ, one that will not be shaken, no matter what comes their way.
Pray for God to bring about his purpose for the Maring people.
Pray for Christians to have love, joy, peace, and patience as they tell others about the King of kings.

Text Source:   Joshua Project