Romani, Vlax in Bulgaria

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 Bulgaria and North Macedonia, but they also live all over Europe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There is much discrimination against the Romani in Bulgaria today. They have an exceptionally high unemployment rate. Vlax Romani in Bulgaria get married in their mid-teens, a factor that contributes to their poverty.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Bulgaria, the Vlax Romani are mostly Christian. 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 traditional beliefs.
Pray for Vlax Romani disciples to make more disciples blessing every family.
Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met.

Text Source:   Joshua Project