Romani, Vlax in Portugal
Photo Source:
Anonymous
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Map Source:
Bethany World Prayer Center
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| People Name: | Romani, Vlax |
| Country: | Portugal |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 600 |
| World Population: | 1,168,800 |
| Primary Language: | Romani, Vlax |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 85.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 1.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Romani |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Vlax is one of the languages of the Romani people. It originated in southeastern Europe, but their ancestry goes back to India. Romani call themselves Rom, which in their language means "men." Rom is derived from the Indian word Dom, meaning "a man of low caste who gains his livelihood by singing and dancing." They could also be metal workers.
In India, they were discriminated against and excluded from the temples. Later, they were sent to Persia as minstrels. From there they were separated into two groups. One traveled northward around the 1000s and became the Romany-speaking European Romani, but they didn’t reach Portugal until the 1400s. The other traveled southward and became known as the Domari or Middle Eastern Romani.
Vlax Romani speakers are mainly in southeastern European countries like Georgia, Kosovo and North Macedonia, but they also live all over Europe, including Portugal.
What Are Their Lives Like?
In Portugal, the government has tried a variety of means to encourage the Vlax Romani to integrate and get involved with the larger society. The Vlax Romani are involved with an underground economy and they have many problems with juvenile delinquency. Vlax Romanis usually marry in their teens, stifling their ability to get a better education so they can advance. A small number of Romani in Portugal have made their name in music, theater arts or sports.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Vlax Romani usually adopt the local religion. In Portugal, this means they are mostly Roman Catholic. Some still believe that ghosts, snakes and lizards have the power to harm people and that someone can make your life miserable by giving the evil eye. Others are committed to the ways of Jesus Christ.
What Are Their Needs?
Like most Romani peoples, the Vlax need acceptance. Many need to learn modern job skills that will help propel them forward in the 21st century.
Prayer Points
Pray for those who adhere to Christianity will put Jesus first, high above any traditional belief system.
Pray for Vlax Romani disciples to make more disciples, blessing every family.
Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met.