Baloch, Western in Afghanistan

Introduction / History

The Baloch (Baluch) are a most ancient semi-nomadic tribal group who eventually occupied an area of land stretching through Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. They first settled there between the 5th and 7th centuries. Considered to be an Iranian people based on language, their racial origin is murky.

There are a couple of Baloch dialects, one of which is known as Western Baloch. They are far more numerous in Pakistan; they also have a large population in neighboring Afghanistan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most in Afghanistan are grain farmers and herders of sheep, goats and cattle.

Some are known as superior camel raisers. Time is also spent wrestling and horseracing or playing games such as cards, checkers and tag with the younger men - activities that once prepared them as warriors.

Western Baloch marriages are arranged between the bride's father and the prospective groom. His family pays a bride price of livestock and cash. Once a woman is married, she passes from the authority of her father to that of her husband. Marriages are monogamous and lifelong, and marrying a non-Baloch is strictly forbidden, though they sometimes make exceptions for the Pathans.

Baluchmayar, or the "Baluchiway," is the honor code by which the Western Baloch live. These principles include extending hospitality and mercy, dealing with each other honestly, and offering refuge to strangers. Songs and poetry preserve these virtues. Children learn proper behavior by watching their elders and are taunted whenever they misbehave.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Western Baloch are Sunni Muslims who in theory are part of several "schools." They identify with Sunni Islam, but for specifics, only the religious intellectuals actually adhere to the schools of Sunni Islam. A typical Baloch is likely to be involved with pre-Islamic practices that involve jinns, the evil eye, etc. They believe it is necessary to appease the spirit world for their practical needs since Allah is so distant.

What Are Their Needs?

There are very few, if any, Christ followers among the Western Baloch in Afghanistan or any other ethnic group in their region. There are gospel materials in the Western Baloch language, but they must be accessed by computer, which isn t always available in Afghanistan.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to provide for their physical and spiritual needs as a testimony of his power and love.
Pray for the removal of their spiritual blindness so they can understand and respond to Christ.
Pray the Baloch people would have a spiritual hunger that will open their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.

Text Source:   Joshua Project