Romani, Vlax in Italy
Photo Source:
Anonymous
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Map Source:
Bethany World Prayer Center
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| People Name: | Romani, Vlax |
| Country: | Italy |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 3,600 |
| World Population: | 1,168,800 |
| Primary Language: | Romani, Vlax |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 80.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 1.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Romani |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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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. They didn’t reach Italy until the 1400s. 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, including Italy.
What Are Their Lives Like?
In Italy, the Vlax Romani are known for their poverty. They are suspected of being thieves and pickpockets. Their communities are messy and unkempt. There have been times when their communities have been bulldozed in Italy. Romani marriages usually take place between couples in their teens which exacerbates their poverty. There are major efforts to get them to leave Italy.
What Are Their Beliefs?
In Italy, the Vlax Romani are mostly Roman Catholic. 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 belief system.
Pray for Vlax Romani disciples to make more disciples affecting every family.
Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met.