Jat Varaich (Muslim traditions) in Pakistan

Introduction / History

Historically Varaich (a.k.a. Waraich) Jats have been landowners and tenant farmers but they also have a reputation as fearless warriors. Many from this clan are in both India's and Pakistan's military forces. Some of Pakistan's prominent military officers are from this clan.
For hundreds of years the Varaich Jats had conflicts over land with the Gujjars. They typically drove the Gujjars off their land, but the Gujjars continued fighting them in an attempt to get their land back. Much of the history of the Varaich Jats is shrouded in myths so we do not know for sure what actually happened.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today Varaich Jats are usually farmers. Some have joined armies and adopted various professions to earn their living. Surprisingly, both Sikh and Muslim Varaichs follow Hindu wedding traditions.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though Muslim Jats are Sunnis, they are known to have a strong tradition of worshiping many local saints. Jats observe many ceremonies, especially rites of passage such as circumcision and initiation into adulthood. Like many other South Asian communities of good standing, Muslim Jats have a negative view of Christianity, because it is associated with people of low status and caste. Sunni religious practices are simple. They believe that Allah has pre-determined our fates; they minimize free will.
In most of the Muslim world, 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 we live in our daily lives. For that reason, they must appease the spirits. They often use charms and amulets to help them with spiritual forces.

What Are Their Needs?

There are very few opportunities for a Varaich Jat to hear the gospel from a believer. At this point, they are more likely to hear of Jesus from a media-based resource. There might be opportunities to show the JESUS Film in areas where the Varaich Jats live, but it would need to be approached prayerfully.

Prayer Points

There are no known followers of Christ among this Jat caste. Pray for God to send His love for the Varaich Jats through His Word, His servants, and His Holy Spirit.
Ask for the Lord to prepare the hearts of the Varaich Jats to be receptive and ready to surrender to Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project