Unreached Peoples: The Kho People of Pakistan
The Kho people of Pakistan face severe persecution and oppression, with Christians facing death penalties and women being treated as prisoners in their own homes.
This sermon sheds light on the challenging circumstances faced by the Khor people in Chitral Valley, where Islam dominates and Christianity is not tolerated, with severe consequences for those who choose to follow Christ. The oppression of women, restricted to their homes and subject to arranged marriages at a young age, highlights the deep-rooted societal norms that limit their freedom and autonomy.
Full Transcript
The Chitral Valley is at the foot of the splendid Trigmir mountain top. It is the home of about 2 million Khor. Chitral is a remote mountain town and the last outpost of civilization in this area.
200 years ago it was still under the rulership of Kafirs, the Islamic word for pagans. But today it is fanatically Muslim and the call from the mosque dominates the life of every man and woman. Almost 100% of the Khor are Muslim.
Christianity is not tolerated. A choice for Christ is a death penalty. The word of God is not available in the local language and people who think differently are persecuted.
Women in this society are totally oppressed and are not normally allowed to walk about in the street. A woman is a prisoner in her own home. She must take care of her family.
Girls as young as 10 years are forced to leave their homes through arranged marriages for a life of service to their new families. Sometimes never to see their parents again. A woman may only leave the safety of her home for special reasons such as going to a hospital or visiting close relatives and then she must wear a veil and be accompanied by a male member of her family.
Women are dependent on men to buy food and even material for making clothes. Chitral is the birthplace of the sport of polo but also the burial ground for any other religion. For more UN videos visit www.un.org
Sermon Outline
- Introduction to the Kho People of Pakistan
- Persecution of Christians
- Oppression of Women
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- Restrictions on Movement and Freedom
- Arranged Marriages and Servitude
Key Quotes
“A woman is a prisoner in her own home.” — Paul Hattaway
“A choice for Christ is a death penalty.” — Paul Hattaway
“Chitral is the burial ground for any other religion.” — Paul Hattaway
Application Points
- We should pray for the persecuted church around the world, especially in the Chitral Valley.
- We should support organizations that work to bring the Word of God to people in restricted access countries.
- We should be mindful of the freedoms we enjoy and not take them for granted.