Baloch, Southern in United Arab Emirates
Photo Source:
Nasha Ila - Flickr
Creative Commons
|
Map Source:
Location: IMB. Imagery: GMI, ESRI, Maxar, Earthstar Geographics, ESRI User Community. Design: Joshua Project.
|
| People Name: | Baloch, Southern |
| Country: | United Arab Emirates |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 383,000 |
| World Population: | 1,609,000 |
| Primary Language: | Balochi, Southern |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Baloch |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
|
Introduction / History
The name "Baloch" is shrouded in mystery. Some say it means "nomad," while others claim it is an old Persian word meaning "the cock's crest." The history of the Southern Baloch people is just as mysterious. Some have even claimed their origins reach back to Nimrod, son of Cush (Noah's grandson).
What is certain is that during the Moghul period, the Baloch people migrated to the territory in Pakistan known as Balochistan. Because making a living is difficult in that region, many Baloch have moved to other countries, including India, Sri Lanka and the UAE.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Baloch marriages are arranged between the bride's father and the prospective groom. His family pays the bride a price in livestock and cash. Once a woman is married, she passes from the authority of her father to that of her husband. Marriages are monogamous and lifelong. Marrying a non-Baloch is strictly forbidden, though they sometimes make exceptions for Pathans.
Baluchmayar, or the Baluchiway, is the honor code by which the Baloch live. These principles involve extending hospitality and mercy, dealing with each other honestly, and offering refuge to strangers. Many Balochs cannot read or write. Until the 20th century, their language was unwritten. However, they have a long tradition of poetic compositions. The Baloch people highly value poets and professional minstrels. Songs and poetry help preserve their Baluchiway virtues and are instrumental in teaching them to the younger generation.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Baloch are Sunni Muslims, but only the religious intellectuals among them actually adhere to the requirements and practices. A typical Baloch is likely to be involved with pre-Islamic practices such as jinns and the evil eye. They believe that Allah i
What Are Their Needs?
The Baloch need to understand that there is only one way to eternal salvation: Jesus Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray for a movement of the Holy Spirit to draw Baloch communities in the UAE to know Jesus.
Pray for the Baloch people to understand and receive the gospel message.
Pray for Baloch believers to share the good news with their families and friends.
Pray for Baloch disciples to be empowered to make more disciples.