Dhobi (Muslim traditions) in Bangladesh

Dhobi (Muslim traditions) in Bangladesh

The Dhobi name means "wash," and this identifies their trade of being clothes washers. Despite the painful physical problems they endure in their work, older Dhobis often work hard so that their children can have an education and advance. There are many young Dhobis now working in the government, trade, business and other professions. Though most Dhobis are Hindu, many are Muslim.

Ministry Obstacles

For these Dhobi, being Muslim is part of their cultural identity. Working hard to provide for their families and praying to Allah are very important to them. To change any of this means they risk losing what is most important in their difficult lives, which are their families and religion.

Outreach Ideas

Believers can develop friendships with the Dhobis as they bring clothes to them to be washed, which can lead to personal conversations that involve stories of Christ. Younger Dhobis are going into other fields of work, which may open more opportunities to have contact with Christ followers or open their availability to the internet or radio Bible programs.

Scripture Focus

"You turn things upside down! Shall the potter be regarded as the clay, that the thing made should say of its maker, He did not make me; or the thing formed say of him who formed it, He has no understanding?"  Isaiah 29:16

Scripture Prayer

Pray that many from this people group will soon understand that they belong to God by right of His life-giving creation.

Prayer Focus

Pray the Muslim Dhobi would come to know Jesus and hear his teaching, such as Matthew 11:29 - "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Pray for a Holy Spirit-led Disciple Making Movement among the Muslim Dhobis in Bangladesh.