Matang (Christian traditions) in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Matang (Christian traditions) |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 189,000 |
| World Population: | 189,000 |
| Primary Language: | Marathi |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 100.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Christian |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Matang Christians are a subset of the Matang ethnic group, traditionally found in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. The Matang community is historically part of the Dalit social category, often marginalized within India's caste system. Their origins trace back to occupations such as manual labor, rope-making, and village watch duties.Christianity among the Matang is a minority tradition. This group is considered minimally reached, meaning they have a significant number who identify as Christian, but few evangelicals and limited biblical engagement.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Matang Christians typically live in rural and semi-urban areas, with many engaged in agriculture, construction, and daily wage labor. Despite some social mobility, many still face economic challenges and social exclusion.Their communities are close-knit, with strong family structures and local leadership. Education levels vary, but access to public schooling has helped some Matang individuals pursue better employment opportunities. They have their own cultural expressions, such as music, drama, and tattooing.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Matang Christians are nominally Christian, with affiliations across Catholic, Protestant, and independent churches. Religious practices may blend Christian teachings with local customs. Churches often serve as both spiritual and social centers, but biblical literacy and theological depth remain limited partly because they lack trained leaders. They need deeper discipleship and spiritual renewal.
What Are Their Needs?
The Matang Christians face several key challenges. Job training, microenterprise support, and access to fair employment can improve livelihoods. Greater investment in education can empower future generations.
Prayer Points
Pray for their medical and educational needs to be met in abundance.Pray for the Holy Spirit to send a powerful revival to Matang homes and churches.Pray for God to prepare and send out members of Matang people to expand his kingdom to ethnic groups that lack a gospel witness.Pray for Matang Christians to be filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit.May they excel in love, joy, and peace.