Afghan Tajiks in Afghanistan

Afghan Tajiks in Afghanistan

pronounced: TAH-jeeks

Modern Afghans are descended from Persian peoples, and are sometimes referred to as Tajiks. They have always spoken Persian (speaking the related Dari dialect in Afghanistan). Originally a tribal group, they abandoned strict organizational structure long ago. However, cultural traditions are guarded and observed - traditions that survived centuries of invasion by forces ranging from ancient Arab hordes to recent Taliban fighters.

Ministry Obstacles

The Afghans have been Muslim for many generations. They acknowledge Jesus as an honored prophet, but not as deity, the Son of God.

Outreach Ideas

The Afghans do not have a high literacy rate. The Gospel can probably best come to them using oral means: videos, recordings, radio, stories from Scripture.

Scripture Focus

"Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love."  Micah 7:18

Scripture Prayer

Pray that this people begin to experience the unfailing love of God and come to the knowledge of Christ.

Prayer Focus

Pray for followers of Jesus to be effective in demonstrating how Jesus blesses and heals families and communities. There are a handful of believers among the Afghans of Afghanistan. Pray for their protection, and that they will be full of the fruit of God's Spirit - love, joy, peace. Pray for peace in Afghanistan, for a stable and effective government, and for improved living conditions for all people.