Northern Uzbeks in Kazakhstan

Northern Uzbeks in Kazakhstan

pronounced: OOZ-beks

The term Uzbek, meaning "master of himself" - this accurately describes the people. Their love of freedom and sense of restlessness have often caused conflicts with the conquerors who have invaded their homeland, the west central Asian region known as Turkestan, throughout the centuries. Many are skillful bazaar artisans (silver and goldsmiths, leather workers, woodcarvers, and rug makers). The traditional social unit, which was based on kinship ties, is continuing to slowly break apart.

Ministry Obstacles

The majority of the Uzbeks are Sunni Muslims. The role of the numerous holy places of pilgrimage in Kazakhstan is less significant than in other territories of Central Asia where the tribal structures are still strong. Pre-Islamic shamanism (belief that there is an unseen world of many gods, demons, and ancestral sprits) survives in an Islamic form. Today the shaman (priest or medicine man) is a practicing Muslim who combines shamanistic trances with reciting Islamic prayers, fasts, and other Islamic practices.

Outreach Ideas

Pray that the Lord of the harvest will send laborers among these no-choice Uzbeks. Pray that God will supply and multiply "seed for the sower and bread for the eater."

Scripture Focus

"We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne."  Hebrews 12:2

Scripture Prayer

Pray that the believers in this people group keep their spiritual focus on Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith.

Prayer Focus

There are no known followers of Christ among the Northern Uzbeks in Kazakhstan. * Pray for God to bring forth His blessing, strengthening and healing weakening families and communities within the Uzbeks. * Ask Him to cause His abundant life and love through Jesus to be widely embraced by these beloved families.