Romani, Vlax in Kosovo

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?

In Kosovo, the Vlax Romani live in substandard housing. They have a high unemployment rate that prevents them from paying for adequate medical care. Their children often don’t attend school. They are trying to gain political clout.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Kosovo the Vlax Romani are about two-thirds Muslim and one-third Christian. Some still believe that ghosts, snakes and lizards have the power to harm people and that someone can make your life miserable by giving the evil eye. Others are committed to the ways of Jesus Christ.

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 the Lord to thrust out loving workers to the Vlax Romani communities.
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.

Text Source:   Joshua Project