Northern Pakistan, bordered by China to the north, Afghanistan to the northwest, and India to the east, has some of the most breathtaking mountains in South Asia. Nestled between five of the world's highest peaks live the northern tribes. They are the original inhabitants of the area. The northern tribes include the Badeshi, Burushas, Kolai, Punjabi Pahari, Shina, Shumashti, and Kho. The Pashtuns have dominated the ethnic groups in this region for years, either buying their land or forcing them out with violence.
Like the other tribes of northern Pakistan, the Shumashtis are farmers and herders. Farming is difficult due to the dry, rugged mountain terrain. On terraced hills and in river plains they grow but one crop a year. In addition, they herd goats and cattle from pasture to pasture.
Sunni Islam has prevailed among these tribes in northern Pakistan and Afghanistan since the early Middle Ages. Their form of Islam, however, is tainted by belief in the power of shamans and unclean spirits. Islamic festivals govern rites of passage and prayer life. There are no known Christ followers among the Shumashtis of Pakistan or Afghanistan.
Their communities lack clean water and sanitation, doctors, dentists, and teachers.
Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met.
Pray for the Lord to thrust forth Holy Spirit anointed workers to go to the Shumashtis and other tribes in northern Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Pray for a desire for spiritual truth among Shumashti elders that will lead them to open the door to Christ's influence.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among all tribes in northern Pakistan.
Scripture Prayers for the Shumashti in Afghanistan.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
