Baloch, Western in Tajikistan

Introduction / History

Their name, Baloch, is shrouded in controversy. Some say it means nomad, while others claim it is an old Persian word meaning "the cock's crest." Their history is just as mysterious. Some have traced their origins to Nimrod, son of Cush (Noah's grandson). But while some things are uncertain, we know that they first moved to the region in the twelfth century. During the Moghul period, this territory became known as Balochistan. The various Baloch groups speak different languages, each with distinguishing characteristics. For example, there are those who speak Western Baloch. Their original homeland reaches from eastern Balochistan to southwestern Punjab, which borders India. This high, dry region was once a very populated country, watered by many flowing rivers. Today, it is a barren area of rocky mountains and dry river valleys mixed with desert land.

It is difficult to make a living in the Baloch homeland, so there is a large Western Baloch diaspora. This diaspora reaches India, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and even Turkmenistan and Tajikistan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Western Baloch marriages are arranged between the bride's father and the prospective groom. His family pays a bride price of 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, and marrying a non-Baloch is strictly forbidden, though they sometimes make exceptions for the Pathans.

Baluchmayar, or the "Baluchiway," is the honor code by which the Baloch live. These principles include extending hospitality and mercy, dealing with each other honestly, and offering refuge to strangers. Songs and poetry preserve these virtues. Children learn proper behavior by watching their elders and are taunted whenever they misbehave.

Many Western Baloch could not read or write and until the 20th century partly because their language was unwritten. However, they have a long tradition of oral poetic compositions. The Western Baloch people give high status to poets and professional minstrels.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Western Baloch are Sunni Muslims who in theory are part of several schools. They identify with Sunni Islam, but for specifics, only the religious intellectuals actually adhere to the schools of Sunni Islam. A typical Baloch is likely to be involved with pre-Islamic practices that involve jinns, the evil eye, etc. They believe it is necessary to appease the spirit world for their practical needs since Allah is so distant.

What Are Their Needs?

The Western Baloch need to understand that Jesus Christ is only one way to abundant life and eternal salvation.

Prayer Points

Pray for a movement of Jesus to heal and strengthen Western Baloch communities in Tajikistan.
Pray for a "Book of Acts" type of movement to Christ among the Western Baloch in Tajikistan.
Pray for the Baloch people to understand and embrace that Jesus wants to bless their families and neighborhoods.
Pray for Holy Spirit anointed believers from the Western Baloch people to change their society from within.
Pray for a movement in which the Holy Spirit leads and empowers disciples to make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project