Day 5. Bengali Muslim in Bangladesh

The Bengali Muslims are the largest ethnic group in Bangladesh. It includes many subgroups, some of which intermarry with Shaikh. The spread of Islam in Bengal began in the 13th century through Sufi missionaries and traders. This blend of ancient Hindu traditions and Islamic influences is evident in their language, literature, music, and art. Today most Bengali Muslims in Bangladesh follow Sunni Islam, specifically the Hanafi school of thought. Daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, charity, and the pilgrimage to Mecca are central practices. Sufi traditions also play a significant role, with many visiting shrines and participating in festivals.

Life for Bengali Muslims varies significantly between urban and rural areas. Urban centers like Dhaka and Chittagong are bustling with economic activity and modern amenities, while rural areas are more focused on agriculture, with many engaged in farming rice, jute, tea, and vegetables. Education is highly valued, but access to quality education remains a challenge, particularly in remote areas. The social structure is patriarchal, with men typically being the primary breadwinners and women managing the household. However, women’s roles are evolving, with increasing participation in the workforce and higher education.

Prayers for Bengali families in Bangladesh:

Lord, send whole families following Jesus to love and bless Bengali families, sharing each other’s burdens and learning from each other. Raise up prayer for extended Bengali families to discover the Good News, to be filled with new hope and faith, thriving in the light of our Father in heaven’s smile.

Lord, bless Your Holy Scriptures (in Bengali-Muslim translations) to be read and spoken in the Bengali homes. Bless communities with confessions of sin and healings in Jesus’ name.  Raise up Bengali leaders to share boldly what You have done for them and their families.

Lord, pour your life and grace into Bengali households: Your truths, miracles, dreams, visions, healing, prayer, worship, freedom from sin. Bless families to be healed and thrive through Your Spirit and the Government of Your love.

The Blessing of God upon the Bengali families and clans: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. (Jer. 29:11)