The Importance of distributing Urdu Bibles in Pakistan !

The establishment of the Pakistan Bible Society in Lahore in 1863 by Indian Christian missionaries played a pivotal role in the propagation of the Christian faith in the subcontinent. The society, which was founded during the era of British rule in the subcontinent, has been instrumental in making the Bible accessible in Urdu and other languages, ensuring its availability to the Christian community in Pakistan.

Urdu is the national language of Pakistan, with additional languages spoken in various provinces and regions. English serves as the official language of Pakistan. While there was a time when Urdu Bibles were scarce in the country, the situation has significantly improved. Presently, Pakistan is abundant with Bibles, with thousands of full Urdu Bibles being printed annually. Furthermore, numerous churches and ministries actively distribute Urdu Bibles across Pakistan, aiming to address the hunger for the Gospel in the nation.

With a population of over 200 million people, Pakistan presents a significant scope for the dissemination of the Christian message. The production of full Urdu Bibles occurs in South Korea, with subsequent distribution to Pakistan via maritime transport. The availability of Bibles in Pakistan is on the rise, contributing to the fulfilment of the scripture that states, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”

The impact of Urdu Bibles and the enduring sacrifices of missionaries hold far-reaching significance. The global body of Christ is urged to stand in solidarity with missionaries in Pakistan, providing them with essential materials, training, education, and resources to effectively share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

It is crucial to note the economic challenges faced by many in Pakistan, where the daily minimum wage is Rs.800 for an eight-hour workday, amounting to Rs. 15,000 for 26 working days. In contrast, the price of one Urdu Bible is Rs. 1760 in 2024. This significant price places the Bible out of reach for many daily wage earners, such as laborers and masons, who struggle to provide for their families. Partnerships and support are essential to ensure the availability of the Word of God to all in Pakistan.