Cultural Diversity of Christians in Kerala

Not all Christians in India are the same, especially in the southern state of Kerala. The history of Christianity in Kerala is deeply rooted and unique, with a diverse array of beliefs and cultural practices. This article provides an overview of the Christians of Kerala, highlighting their cultural diversity and historical background.

Introduction to the Christians of Kerala

Believe it or not, the Christians of Kerala are often considered Keralites themselves. According to legend, Saint Thomas, one of Jesus' apostles, came to Kerala and converted local people to Christianity. Over the centuries, Eastern churches such as the Syrian community have influenced Keralite Christians.

Throughout history, foreign missionaries, primarily from the British colonial era, played a significant role in converting Keralite people to Christianity. However, it is important to note that no foreign Christians established permanent settlements here. Even today, one in a hundred thousand might have foreign ancestry, but the predominant reality is that these conversions were spiritual, not demographic.

Sub-sects and Beliefs in Kerala Christianity

The Christians in Kerala are not homogeneous. They are divided into several sub-sects based on various factors, including historical influence, political power, and cultural beliefs. This diversity can be attributed to multiple reasons, from pride in ancestral heritage to the desire for political or religious power.

The Origins and Divisions

The Christians of Kerala can mainly be classified into two major categories based on the influences that spurred their conversion:

Syrian Christians

This group includes converts influenced by the Syrian church. The Syrian church, also known as the Malabar Church, was founded in 52 AD by Saint Thomas. This community holds a rich heritage and has its own unique liturgy and practices, distinct from Latin Christians.

Latin Christians

This includes converts influenced by foreign missionaries, mainly during the British colonial era. Latin Christians are primarily adherents of the Roman Catholic Church, as opposed to the Eastern Orthodox Church. There are numerous sub-sections within both groups, including:

Orthodox Christians Jacobite Christians Marthoma Christians Malankara Christians Believers Church

Challenges and Unity Among Christians in Kerala

Despite their cultural and religious diversity, Christians in Kerala have managed to coexist and share a common identity. This coexistence can often be seen during major church festivals, where various communities come together to celebrate.

However, it's important to note that there have been occasional tensions and divisions within the community. For instance, the famous statements made by Swami Vivekananda about the caste system in Kerala were pivotal in highlighting the struggles faced by Keralites in general, including Christians.

The Role of Swami Vivekananda

References to societal issues such as the caste system still resonate with the Keralite Christians. Swami Vivekananda once referred to Kerala as a lunatic asylum because of its rigid social structures. While this statement can be seen as overly harsh, it sheds light on the challenges faced by people, including Christians, in maintaining social harmony.

Conclusion

The Christians of Kerala, while diverse in their origins and practices, share a common language, culture, and identity. Their history is a testament to the impact of both local and foreign influences on Christian traditions. Understanding the nuances of this diversity can help in building a more inclusive and respectful society.

No matter the sub-sect or belief, Keralite Christians have much to be proud of, from their deep-rooted religious heritage to their rich cultural contributions. This article aims to shed light on these diverse communities and foster a better understanding of the complex yet beautiful tapestry of Christianity in Kerala.