Madari (Muslim traditions) in Pakistan

Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
People Name: Madari (Muslim traditions)
Country: Pakistan
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 55,000
World Population: 127,500
Primary Language: Punjabi, Western
Primary Religion: Islam
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Online Audio NT: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia Muslim - other
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Madari people are Muslim, but they are also a community of faqirs, who live a lifestyle of poverty and extreme spiritual discipline. Muslim faqirs are usually sufis. This sector of Islam began during the days of the Umayyad Caliphate, which was noted for materialism and the accompanying spiritual decadence. Sufis were a spiritual rebellion against this; adherents wish to rid themselves of non-spiritual desires.

Where Are they Located?

Most Madari people live in India, but others live in Pakistan, Bangladesh, or Sri Lanka. There are a very few of them in Sri Lanka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Faqirs like the Madaris, be they Hindu or Muslim, have renounced anything but a life of poverty. They believe themselves to be completely reliant on God rather than material possessions, thus, they live off alms from the faithful. Some people expect them to be miracle-workers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Madari people are part of the Sufi sect of Islam. Sufis are far more emotional than other sects, and they are noted for their extreme dedication to Allah, the God of Islam.

What Are Their Needs?

Like other ascetics, the Madari people need to experience the limitless love and grace of our Lord. They need to know that their extreme works and devotion will not earn them salvation.

Prayer Points

Pray for Jesus movements to bless extended Madari families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Madari people teachable and understanding hearts.
Pray for a strong movement of the Holy Spirit to bring entire Madari families into a rich experience of God's blessing.

Text Source:   Keith Carey