Romani, Vlax in Albania

Introduction / History

Vlax is one of the languages of the Romani people. It originated in southeastern Europe, but their ancestry goes back to India. Romani call themselves Rom, which in their language means "men." Rom is derived from the Indian word Dom, meaning "a man of low caste who gains his livelihood by singing and dancing." They could also be metal workers.

In India, they were discriminated against and excluded from the temples. Later, they were sent to Persia as minstrels. From there they were separated into two groups. One traveled northward around the 1000s and became the Romany-speaking European Romani. The other traveled southward and became known as the Domari or Middle Eastern Romani.

Vlax Romani speakers are mainly in southeastern European countries like Georgia, Kosovo and North Macedonia, but they also live all over Europe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though they are known for their nomadic past, few keep to that lifestyle today. They depend on a variety of entrepreneurial skills for their livelihood. It is common for Romani to have two or more specialized occupations. This makes it easier for them to adapt to a changing society's needs.

Romani have long been known for their abilities as musicians, singers and dancers. They also hold a wide variety of other occupations. The men are skilled makers of sieves, drums, bird cages and reed mats. They also entertain with animals, work as tinkers or play music. The women sometimes sell cloth, shoes, kitchen utensils or other products made by Romani men. Many also sing and dance. Both men and women shear sheep, spin wool, and tell fortunes. Sadly, some of the women and children are forced to beg for food as a means of survival. Romani marriages usually take place between couples in their teens.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Albania, the Vlax Romani are mostly Muslim but about one-fourth are Christian. They usually adopt to the religion of the local population. Some also believe ghosts, lizards and snakes are capable of harming humans and that people have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye." Others have come to true repentance in Christ, and they are following him.

What Are Their Needs?

Like most Romani peoples, the Vlax need acceptance. Many need to learn modern job skills that will help propel them forward in the 21st century.

Prayer Points

Pray for those who adhere to Christianity will put Jesus first, high above any past belief system.
Pray for Vlax Romani disciples to make more disciples affecting every family.
Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met.

Text Source:   Joshua Project