Romani, Balkan in Greece

Introduction / History

The Romani people are often misunderstood. They have been called “Gypsies” because people thought they were from Egypt. That term has become derogatory. 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 and became the Romany-speaking European Romani. The other traveled southward and became known as the Domari or Middle Eastern Romani. Through time they developed numerous dialects.

As the name suggests, Balkan Romani speakers are mainly in the Balkan nations. This dialect uses grammar from the Turkish language. Like other Romani languages, it has some influences from Greek. There are smaller populations in different parts of Europe, including Greece.

People often assume that all Romani have dark hair, complexion, and eyes; however, Balkan Romani sometimes have lighter skin and even blond hair and blue eyes. This is probably because their ancestors mixed with Europeans. Unlike the Romani who have remained in India, many Balkan Romani are settled.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Balkan Romani people in Greece often struggle with poverty. Their unemployment rate is over two times that of the majority Greek population. Only about half of the Romani children in Greece receive an education.

Some, however, have excelled in music and sports, specifically soccer.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Wherever they live, the Romani people adopt the local religion. In Greece, about two-thirds adhere to some form of Christianity. Beneath the surface of organized religion, some maintain religious traditions and beliefs. Some believe that ghosts, lizards and snakes are capable of harming humans. People have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye." Others have come to true repentance in Christ, and they are following him.

What Are Their Needs?

Although they may be more sanitary, better educated, and have more opportunities than Romani in the Middle East and India, they all have one thing in common: the need to follow Jesus with all their hearts. Christ’s followers can be Christ-bearers to these rejected people. It will take people who are willing to take risks for the Lord.

Prayer Points

Pray that Balkan Romani people will find love and acceptance through Christ, leading them to give him all their dedication.
Pray for a heartfelt dedication to Jesus Christ that will rise high above traditional beliefs.
Ask the Lord to raise up loving and dedicated people who are willing to share Christ with the Romani.
Pray that soon there will be a movement of Balkan Romani discipling others, spreading the fragrance of Christ everywhere.

Text Source:   Joshua Project