Alawite in Syria

Alawite in Syria

The Alawis are a tribal people, divided into four main tribes. They are a closed society and they see themselves as a persecuted and despised people, who actually are the chosen people of God, the only ones to have seen the light in a world of darkness. The Alawis have survived as a distinct group in spite of repeated persecution and the threat of extinction by the Sunni majority and rulers who considered them pagans and heretics. The Alawis believe that all people were stars in the world of light, but fell from there due to disobedience. They believe they must be reincarnated seven times before they once again return to the stars where Ali is prince. If they are sinful, they will be reborn as Christians until their atonement is complete. Infidels will be reborn as animals. The common Alawite person does not even know his group's teachings, because they are so secret.

Ministry Obstacles

The Alawites have long struggled to protect their religion, an offshoot of Islam. To leave their religion marks one as a traitor.

Outreach Ideas

The gospel of Christ is widely available throughout the Middle East, in electronic form. Pray that people would discover how easy it is to download scripture, recordings, videos and other resources to their computers and phones.

Scripture Focus

"and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also."  2 Timothy 2:2

Scripture Prayer

Use this verse to pray for a disciple making movement among this people group.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the few Alawites who have decided to accept Jesus as their own Savior. They need encouragement and prayer support. Pray the Lord would use turmoil in the Middle East to point people in that region towards Jesus the Prince of Peace, Immanuel, God with us.