Bafinda in Pakistan

Bafinda
Photo Source:  Copyrighted © 2024
Isudas  All rights reserved.  Used with permission
Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
People Name: Bafinda
Country: Pakistan
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 107,000
World Population: 122,000
Primary Language: Pahari-Potwari
Primary Religion: Islam
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: Portions
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia Muslim - other
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The name Bafinda, or Bafand, is derived from the Persian word baften, meaning cotton dresser. This has been their traditional occupation.

Where Are they Located?

Most of the Bafinda people live in Pakistan, but a smaller number live in Jammu and Kashmir.

What Are Their Lives Like?

When cotton cultivation stopped in Jammu and Kashmir with the advent of foreign-made fabrics, they largely shifted to carpet weaving, but now are engaged in many vocations. They generally marry only within their own community. They follow the Islamic law of inheritance.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The primary religion practiced by the Bafinda is Islam, a monotheistic religion built around the teachings of the Koran and of the prophet Muhammad. Some of them have been reported to practice tonsure where they cut some hair on the scalp as a sign of religious devotion or humility.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bafinda people need to understand that they must have a Savior, Jesus Christ, to be in good standing with the Almighty God. Their works will not account for anything on the day of judgment.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Muslim Bafinda family and community leaders to seek His face and enjoy His blessings.

Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a disciple making movement among the Bafinda people.

Pray that soon the Bafinda people will have faith that is more precious and durable than gold.

Text Source:   Keith Carey