Pherera (Muslim traditions) in Pakistan

Introduction / History

The Pherera people, an ethnic group with ancient roots, have traditionally inhabited the rural regions of Pakistan. Their history includes a rich tapestry of agricultural practices and community-oriented living. Over the centuries, the Pherera have established themselves as skilled farmers and craftsmen, contributing significantly to the agrarian economy. Their cultural heritage reflects a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from neighboring ethnic groups.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, the Pherera people live primarily in rural areas, where they engage in farming, animal husbandry and small-scale crafts. Many Pherera families own and cultivate land, growing crops such as wheat, rice and vegetables. Their communities are close-knit, with extended families living together and supporting one another. Despite facing economic challenges and limited access to modern amenities, the Pherera maintain their traditional way of life, celebrating their cultural heritage through festivals, music and dance. They value education and seek opportunities for their children to learn and progress.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Pherera people practice Sunni Islam. They observe Islamic rituals and traditions, including daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and celebrating religious festivals such as Eid. Their belief system also incorporates elements of their indigenous traditions. Commonly the Pherera people depend on the spirit world for their daily needs since they regard Allah as too distant. Allah may determine their eternal salvation, but the spirits determine how well they live on a daily basis. For that reason, rural Muslims appease spirits using charms and amulets to help them with spiritual forces. More orthodox Muslims consider these practices heretical and un-Islamic.

What Are Their Needs?

Like most people in rural Pakistan the Pherera people need adequate medical facilities. They need good schools to help their children prepare for the future.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Pherera culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit and shaped into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among their family and community leaders to seek his face and enjoy his blessings.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a Disciple Making Movement among the Pherera people.
Pray that soon the Pherera people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the savior.
Pray for spiritual discernment and a hunger for true spirituality.

Text Source:   Joshua Project