Hazara Jaghuri in Pakistan

Introduction / History

The Joghori are a subgroup of the Hazaras. There are four groups of Joghori: Baighani, Yazdari, Baghocari, and the Gari. Though small in number, the Jaghori live in Pakistan, though their name suggests a location in Afghanistan. The Jaghori Hazara live mainly in Quetta, Pakistan, though others live near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.

What Are Their Lives Like?

As Shia Muslims, the Jaghori Hazara must be ready to deal with violent opposition and persecution in Pakistan. Despite their difficulties, the Jaghori are resilient, and they have overcome rejection in this part of the world.
The Hazara peoples are identifiable because of their Asian features. Most likely their ancestors were part of the Mongolian forces that conquered in the 13th century. Hazara men wear knee length, cotton shirts hanging over matching baggy trousers, embroidered skullcaps, and turbans. Women wear similar clothing, except that they use brightly colored shawls to cover their heads.
Hazara marriage ceremonies follow the traditional Shia Islamic pattern. Most marry within their own communities and nearly always within the Hazara ethnic group. They prefer marriages between first cousins, particularly from the father's side of the family. When a girl reaches about fifteen years of age, she is usually married to the man of her parents' choice.
Only boys have the opportunity for formal education, which usually lasts only one or two years. The teachings are centered on Islam, and memorization of poetry is a major part of their education. As a result, illiteracy is very high among the Hazara.
Despite their reputation as fierce, warlike people, the Hazara are widely renowned for their hospitality, warmth, and generosity. Also, Hazara women have a greater degree of social freedom than women in most other Muslim groups.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Unlike most Pakistanis who follow Sunni Islam, the Hazara follow the Shia sect of Islam. Although they shun the most stringent Muslim customs, the Hazara are devoted to their faith, praying five times per day while facing the holy city of Mecca and fasting during the month of Ramadan.
Religious authorities called Sayyids play an integral role in the Islamic beliefs of the Hazara. Sayyids have claimed descent from the founder of Islam, Mohammed. Although they were originally Arabs, the Sayyids of Pakistan have intermarried with the Hazara and have become much like them in physical appearance and culture. They use their sacred qualities to serve the religious needs of the common people. Hazaras believe the Sayyids' prayers and good favor bring blessing.

What Are Their Needs?

The Hazara are looked down upon and despised by other ethnic groups. Both in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Hazaras are often physically attacked for their Shia faith. They are some of the poorest people of Pakistan and suffer an alarming array of health problems; eye diseases, leprosy and tuberculosis are very common.
They also have great spiritual needs with few opportunities to encounter Jesus Christ who alone can provide them with answers and life to the full.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to protect these violated people.
Pray for Hazara family heads to have a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the only Savior.
Pray for the JESUS Film and other Christian materials to become readily available to the Hazaras in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Pray for Christ followers to make Hazara disciples in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Text Source:   Joshua Project