Monday, 1 May 2023

A Short Introduction to Mehsud/Maseed Tribe

 The Mehsud tribe is a Pashtun tribe primarily based in the South Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. They are also found in some parts of Afghanistan, especially in the Paktika province.

The origin of the Mehsud tribe is uncertain, and there are different theories about their origin. According to one theory, they are descended from the ancient Ghorids who ruled Afghanistan and parts of South Asia in the 12th and 13th centuries. Another theory suggests that they are descended from the Khashi, a tribe that lived in the area before the arrival of the Pashtuns.

The Mehsuds are divided into several sub-tribes, including the Behlolzai, ShamanKhail and Machikhail. The Behlolzai are the largest sub-tribe, and they are further divided into several clans.

The Mehsuds have a traditional system
of governance that is based on the Pashtunwali code. This system emphasizes honor, hospitality, and revenge, and it governs all aspects of social and political life. The Mehsuds also have a tribal council, or jirga, which serves as the primary decision-making body in the tribe.

The Mehsuds are primarily Sunni Muslims, and they follow the Hanafi school of Islamic jurisprudence. They have a rich culture and are known for their traditional music and dance, particularly the attan dance.

In the past, the Mehsuds were known for their military prowess, and they played a significant role in the resistance against British colonial rule in the 19th and early 20th centuries. They were also active in the Afghan jihad against Soviet occupation in the 1980s.

However, in recent years, the Mehsuds have been involved in militant activities in Pakistan's tribal areas. They have been targeted by the Pakistani military as part of its efforts to combat terrorism and extremism in the region. Many Mehsuds have been displaced from their homes due to the ongoing conflict, and the area remains volatile and unstable.


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A Short Introduction to Mehsud/Maseed Tribe

  The Mehsud tribe is a Pashtun tribe primarily based in the South Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. They are ...