Bhisti in Pakistan

Introduction / History

The name "Bhisti" is from a Persian word for paradise. This name was given to them because they carried water to thirsty soldiers. Their language is Urdu; however, they also speak the languages of the different areas where they live.

Where Are they Located?

North India, Karachi (a city in Pakistan), and Nepal's Terai Region are home to Bhisti people.

What Are Their Lives Like?

As water carriers, the Bhisti people do hard work with very little pay. As drinkable water has become more available, many of them have left this profession for other low-paying jobs in carpentry, making cigarettes, welding, and painting. It is common for Bhisti people to be landless agricultural workers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Pakistan the Bhisti people are solidly Muslim, though they incorporate folk religion with Islam. They believe in evil spirits, which puts them in a constant state of fear. They often have village deities, and someone in the village acts as caretaker for this spirit to protect them from natural disasters and sickness. The Bhisti people celebrate Muslim festivals and go to the tombs of Muslim Sufi saints in hopes of gaining favor.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bhisti people need to know the sovereign Lord who can push back the work of evil spirits and free them from fear. They need to depend on Him for their needs, and forsake the spirits they now appease.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Bhisti people's economic well-being as they struggle to make a living in a world that has changed dramatically since their caste began.
Pray for their mental condition, as they are often filled with the fear of the evil spirits.
Pray especially for their souls that they may hear and respond to the one true God who loves them and longs to give them living water.
Pray for a disciple making movement among the Bhisti people that will spread throughout South Asia.

Text Source:   Global Prayer Digest