Introduction / History

In their homeland of India they were originally called Dom, meaning man. Later, Dom developed into Rom. Today, they prefer to be called Romani in Europe; but in the Middle East and North Africa, many still refer to themselves as 'Dom' or 'Domi'. Here, the term 'Dom' will be used for this people group found in the Middle East, and 'Romani' will be used as a general, more recognizable designation for the larger people group.Originally coming from India, the Romani are now scattered throughout the world. They have their subgroups, one of which is the Tottare. Tottare Romani live in Norway and Sweden.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Tottare Romani lifestyles vary widely. There are those who maintain a peripatetic (nomadic) lifestyle. They offer their services as entertainers, musicians, or metal workers to other nomadic groups.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Tottare Romani tend to adopt the dominant religion of their host country. In the case of Sweden and Norway, this is either Lutheranism or secular humanism. They consider religion a personal matter, and they are hesitant to talk about it with anyone. Superstition and "the good elements" of many religious systems make up the nature of their beliefs. Spiritism is dominant in their thinking as to why things happen in the world. They strongly fear evil spirits and curses. Tottare Romani fortunetellers offer to make clients a potion that will ward off curses.

What Are Their Needs?

In almost all of the countries they live in, their rudimentary command of the local language and limited use of written documents have contributed to their political powerlessness. Some who have settled are in transition, as they seek to become a part of the social systems around them. In an effort to fit in, they may abandon the traditional clothing, tattooing, dancing, and fortune-telling that are part of the Romani lifestyle. They may even deny their ethnic identity. For that reason, accurate population counts are difficult to secure. Too often, Tottare Romanis hide their identity on purpose.Regardless of their efforts to assimilate into the mainstream society,Due to their poverty, they are often unable to pay hospital fees when children are born. In this case, no birth certificate is issued, so the possibility of securing citizenship is forfeited. The concept of owning land is not inherent to the nomadic Dom worldview, and they find it difficult to adjust to such an outlook. Few families own the plots of land on which they locate their settlements or camps. Therefore, they are often subjected to forced relocation.

Prayer Items

Pray that traditional barriers to the gospel would be broken down through love and acceptance.Pray for the Holy Spirit to bless Tottare Romanis families with the realization that they need a sin-free Savior who offers abundant life.Pray for Tottare Romanis elders and family leaders to open the door to evangelism and discipleship.Pray for Tottare Romanis disciples who are zealous to spread the fragrance of Christ to their community and to others.

Scripture Prayers for the Romani, Tottare in Norway.

References

Middle East Resources