Pashtun in Bangladesh

Pashtun culture adheres to an unwritten “code of ethics” called Pushtunwali (the way of the Pashtun). This code outlines behavior that is expected to be followed without question. It includes hospitality and protection for guests, provision of refuge to a fugitive and acceptance of a sincere offer of peace, bravery, steadfastness, persistence, defense of property and family honor, and protection of female relatives. These are values for which death is not too high a price to pay. Though the Taliban is far from Bangladesh, some Pashtuns have made their way to that distant part of South Asia. Like the Bangladeshi majority, they adhere to Sunni Islam.

Ministry Obstacles

Members of the Islamic religion are very difficult to influence. Pashtuns who decide to follow Christ are likely to be banished from their families. Consequently, there have been very few spiritual inroads among the Pashtuns wherever they live, including Bangladesh. These passionate people adhere to Islam, even though their code of ethics sometimes supersedes Islamic regulations.

Scripture Focus

"For my life is spent with sorrow, and my years with sighing; my strength fails because of my iniquity, and my bones waste away."  Psalm 31:10

Scripture Prayer

Pray that this people group will understand that sin drains and destroys, but the Lord offers forgiveness and spiritual refreshment.

Prayer Focus

Pray for peace in the hearts of the Pashtun. Ask God to call those who are willing to go to Bangladesh and share Christ with the Pashtun. Pray that God would encourage and protect the small number of Pashtun believers wherever they live. Ask God to soften the hearts of the Pashtun towards believers so that they will be open to the gospel. Pray for Pashtun disciples who will make more disciples in Bangladesh. Pray for the Lord to raise up tough but loving ambassadors to the Pashtuns in Bangladesh.