Baloch Magasi in Pakistan

People Name:	Baloch Magasi
Country:	Pakistan
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	95,000
World Population:	95,000
Primary Language:	Balochi, Southern
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:	Baloch
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Baloch people live in the southernmost region of the Iranian plateau in Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. They speak the Balochi language. It is believed that the name "Baloch" is derived from the name of the Babylonian king and god Belus. Some believe the word is a derivation of Sanskrit words "Bal" meaning strength and "Och" meaning high or magnificent.

The Baloch claim their origins to be in Aleppo in what is now Syria. They are descendants of Hazrat Ameer Hamza, the uncle of Islamic prophet Mohammad. Based on an analysis of the linguistic connections of the Balochi language, the original homeland of the Balochi tribes was likely the east or southeast area of the central Caspian region. The Baloch generally live in remote mountainous and desert regions, which provides protection from invasions. They live mainly in the Balochistan region of the southeastern-most edge of the Iranian plateau in Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, as well as in the Arabian Peninsula. They are subdivided among over 130 tribes, including the Southern Balochi speaking Magasi Baloch.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Magasi Baloch live according to tribal customs. The men wear long shirts with long sleeves and loose pants. They sometimes wear turbans on their heads. The Baloch living in Iran observe a more conservative dress code; some women cover their faces with thick red wools and wear a head scarf and long veil. Gold ornaments such as necklaces and bracelets are an important aspect of Baloch women's traditions. They usually wear a gold brooch that is used to fasten two parts of the dress together over the chest. They pass traditions to children through oral history retelling. The tradition of a Baloch mother singing lullabies to her children has played an important role in the transfer of knowledge from generation to generation for many centuries.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Magasi Baloch identify as Sunni Muslims, a faith deeply interwoven with their daily lives. Their Islamic beliefs are sometimes compromised by traditional religion. Balochi customs and traditions are conducted according to codes imposed by their tribal laws.

What Are Their Needs?

The Magasi Baloch face significant challenges, including limited access to education and healthcare. Geographical isolation and economic hardship hinder development opportunities. Political unrest in the region also impacts their quality of life and access to resources.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Baloch may be open to the lordship of Jesus Christ and his gospel workers.
Pray for Magasi elders and family leaders to have dreams and visions of the victorious, loving Christ.
Pray that God will provide workers who speak the Balochi language to work with the Baloch peoples.
Pray for God to provide a record harvest for the Magasi Baloch as a testimony of his power and goodness.