Gypsies 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." In the Arab world, Gypsies are called Zot or Nauar, hence the Zott (or Nawari) Gypsies. The Zott live in Iran, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. The major difference between the Zott and other Gypsies is their language. The Zott speak Arabiya (Arabic).

It is believed that Gypsies originated in India where they worked as musicians, entertainers, and metal workers. From there, they began to migrate. Some went to Afghanistan and Persia; others went to Armenia, and Russia; another group went into Turkey; and some traveled southward into the Middle East and North Africa. Also, the various Gypsy languages all belong to the North Indo-Aryan language family. However, regardless of where they lived, the Gypsies never lost their common characteristics, especially their mysterious way of life.

What are their lives like?
Dark skin and dark eyes are typical of most Gypsies. Their almost "mystical" lifestyle has made them the objects of curiosity, distrust, and even fear, from their beginnings until now.

Most of the Gypsies live in Europe, and very little is known about the Zott in particular. It is assumed that they are still nomads, wandering from region to region, dependent on the people for their livelihood. It is common for Gypsies to have two or more specialized occupations. This makes it easier for them to adapt to a changing society's needs. When a region's people no longer need a Gypsy's particular skill, they move on to one that will. When a Gypsy cannot adapt or change his occupation, he will settle down. Today, therefore, there are some Gypsy villages and communities in the Middle East. Some even live in the cities.

Nomadic Gypsies either travel in caravans of wagons or carts, or they ride on camels, donkeys, or horses. The settled Gypsies usually live in houses that are typical to those of the region in which they settle.

Gypsies have long been known for their abilities as musicians, singers, and dancers. They also hold a wide variety of other occupations. The men are skilled makers of sieves, drums, bird cages, and reed mats. They also entertain with animals, work as tinkers, or play music. The women peddle such things as cloth, shoes, kitchen utensils, or products made by the men. Many also sing and dance. Both men and women shear sheep, spin wool, and tell fortunes. Sadly, some of the women and children are forced to beg or even steal food as a means of survival.

Gypsy marriages usually take place between couples in their teens. Though polygyny (having more than one wife) is sometimes practiced, it is rare. The family unit is highly valued because each member is depended on for his financial contribution.

Typically, Gypsies have very unclean living habits due to their nomadic lifestyle. Sanitation and good hygiene are rarely practiced. Children are often poorly cared for; their hair hangs loosely and shoes are seldom worn. Their wagons or carts are used as living units and shops as well as for transportation, which contributes to their unsanitary lifestyle.

Values such as justice, fidelity, and morality are very significant in Gypsy society. Such things as courtesy and friendliness are also very important. The control of deviants is strictly enforced. If a Gypsy becomes impure by some immoral or unlawful act, he is considered an outcast. Also, sexual purity is considered a must for young girls. In fact, it must be proven before marriage that the girl has never been with a man. This strict social code is related to their old Hindu caste system, which they have kept since their origin.

What are their beliefs?
Although the Zott Gypsies are almost entirely Sunni Muslim, there is evidence that some of their traditional practices are still being observed. For example, they believe that ghosts, lizards, and snakes are capable of harming humans. They also believe that men have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye," and that some people have the power to heal the sick.

What are their needs?
The unsanitary lifestyle of the Zott Gypsies has created many physical needs. The quality of health care, nutrition, housing, and education is poor. Adequate educational opportunities must be provided in order to raise their standard of living.

Spiritually, the Islamic religion is very difficult to penetrate. Their nomadic lifestyle makes it hard for missionaries to reach them, and their reputation as beggars and thieves makes them undesirable targets for outreach.

Most Gypsies have no Christian resources available to them. However, because the Zott speak Arabic, they have the Jesus film and the Bible in their language. Unfortunately, there are no missions agencies currently working among the Zott. Christian workers are needed to live among them and teach them how to live in a way that pleases God.

Prayer Points

• Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to go to the Middle East and share Christ with the Zott Gypsies.
• Pray that the Lord Jesus will reveal Himself to the Zott through dreams and visions.
• Ask God to strengthen, encourage, and protect the small number of Zott Christians in the UAE.
• Pray that those Gypsies who know Christ will be bold witnesses of the Gospel to their own people.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to soften the hearts of Gypsies towards Christians so that they will be receptive to the Gospel.
• Pray that God will raise up teams of intercessors who will faithfully stand in the gap for them.
• Take authority over the spiritual principalities and powers that are keeping the Zott bound.
• Ask the Lord to raise up strong local churches among the Zott Gypsies.

See also the following Gypsy Groups:
The Balkan Gypsies; The Gypsies of India; and The Middle East Gypsies.

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Bethany World Prayer Center
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