In their homeland of India, they were originally called Dom, meaning man. Later, Dom developed into Rom. Today, they prefer to be called Romani in Europe; but in the Middle East and North Africa, many still refer to themselves as 'Dom' or 'Domi'. Here, the term 'Dom' will be used for this people group found in the Middle East, and 'Romani' will be used as a general, more recognizable designation for the larger people group. There are many fascinating folk tales about their origins that are still passed down from generation to generation.
The Romani were allowed into Austria in the 1600s because of their metal working skills. They traveled from village to village forging and sharpening metal tools. Others made brooks or worked on farms. Under the Habsburg monarchy of Maria Theresa (1740–1780) the Romani were forced to settle in areas outside Austrian villages, but not allowed to own needed horse and buggies. Young men who had no trade were forced into military service for the Hapsburg Empire.
Well into the 20th century the Romani were traveling salesmen and metal workers. 1939 was a year when the Nazis tried to exterminate them, but a few remained after WWII ended.
Romani children are at a disadvantage in Austrian schools partly because of the language difference. Some Romani adults support themselves as craftsmen, peddlers, fortunetellers and dancers in city streets. There are occasional acts of violence against them such as a deadly pipe bomb explosion in 1995.
The Romani people tend to adopt the dominant religion of their host country, so many Romani people in Europe would consider themselves Christian. Those in Austrian are usually Catholic who emphasize the cult of the Virgin Mary. Romani people usually consider religion a personal matter, and they are hesitant to talk about it with anyone, especially outsiders. Superstition and "the good elements" of many religious systems make up the nature of their beliefs. Spiritism is dominant in their thinking as to why things happen in the world. They strongly fear evil spirits and curses. Romani fortunetellers offer to make clients a potion that will ward off curses.
In almost all countries where they live, their rudimentary command of the local language and limited use of written documents have contributed to their political powerlessness. Some who have settled are in transition, as they seek to become a part of the
Pray for the Lord to direct Romani leaders to lead their people into ways of life that benefit all people concerned.
Pray for Romani people to understand the supremacy of Christ, who is far above any "good" elements of existing religious systems.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out Christ’s ambassadors who can earn their trust and lead them to the cross.
Pray for the Lord to use nomadic Romani people as preachers of the Word of God and disciplers.
Scripture Prayers for the Romani, Austrian in Austria.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romani_people_in_Austria
https://minorityrights.org/minorities/romagypsies/
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
