Romani, Domari in Israel

Introduction / History

Romani or Domari, comprise two groups: the Ghorbati and the Nawari. Both groups speak a dialect of the language called Romany, which is related to Punjabi and Rajasthani, both South Asian languages. Their dialect, Domari, contains many Arabic words. Romani speakers call themselves Rom, which in their language means "men." They derive Rom from the word Dom, meaning "a man of low caste who gains his livelihood by singing and dancing."Romani speaking people originated in India where their ancestors worked as musicians, entertainers, and metal workers. They were discriminated against and excluded from Hindu temples. Later, they were sent to Persia as minstrels. From there, the Romani separated into two groups. One traveled northward and became the Romany-speaking European Romani. The other traveled southward and became known as the Domari, or Middle Eastern Romani. The latter group lives in Turkey and other countries in Central Asia. There are many in the Arabic speaking countries: Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and especially Egypt. Others live in Israel.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In Israel, the Romani are usually settled. They try to blend in with the other peoples in such a way people don't know they exist. The Israelis usually view them as Arabs, and the Arabs consider them outcasts. They often live in cities like Jerusalem living in houses that are typical in this region.


Romani have long been known for their abilities as musicians, singers, and dancers. They also hold a wide variety of other occupations. The men are skilled makers of sieves, drums, bird cages, and reed mats. They also entertain with animals, work as tinkers, or play music. The women sometimes sell such things as cloth, shoes, kitchen utensils, or other products made by Romani men.


Romani marriages usually take place between couples in their teens. Romani people consider sexual purity a must for young women. Before she is married, her family must be proof that she has never been with a man.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Romani in Middle Eastern or Central Asian countries like Israel are usually Muslim, and they follow the practices and beliefs of the Islamic faith. The traditional beliefs of the Romani such as that ghosts, lizards, and snakes can harm humans, that men have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye," and that some people have the power to heal the sick are no longer held by most Romani.

What Are Their Needs?

The quality of health care, nutrition, housing, and education is poor, especially those who live in refugee camps. Believers with the right skills could be a blessing to the Romani by providing some of these needs. Their nomadic lifestyle has made it difficult for workers to reach them. The Islamic religion is very difficult to influence. All they have are Bible portions in their language. Christian workers need to teach them how to live lives pleasing to God.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to renew and enhance Domari culture for God's glory.


Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Domari family and community leaders to seek his face and enjoy his blessings.


Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to nurture a movement to Christ among the Domari people in Israel.


Pray that their dire conditions will soon lead the Domari to seek the One True God who yearns to give them the peace and joy of the Lord.

Text Source:   Joshua Project