Southern Pashtun in Iran

Southern Pashtun in Iran

The Sunni Muslim Pashtun were the traditional rulers of Afghanistan for over 250 years, from founding of the country in 1747 to 1973. Since the overthrow of the Afghan king, the Soviet invasion in the 1970s, and the overthrow of the communists in the 1980s, Afghanistan has faced constant conflict. Many Pashtuns joined other tribal groups and fled Afghanistan during the 1980's conflict. They settled in refugee camps in the border provinces of Iran and Pakistan, and most returned to Afghanistan when things were more settled. However, some Pashtun men have continued to sneak into Iran to escape poverty and the constant fighting. Younger Pashtun men try to go directly to Tehran to find work in construction, where they are more accepted. Many send money back to Afghanistan to help their families.

Ministry Obstacles

Pashtuns are isolated from Iranian believers; they speak a different language and are in entirely different social circles.

Outreach Ideas

Iranian believers can take up jobs in construction and other areas where Pashtuns commonly work, so they can have contact with them.

Scripture Focus

"And it shall come to pass, if they will diligently learn the ways of my people, to swear by my name, ‘As the Lord lives,’ even as they taught my people to swear by Baal, then they shall be built up in the midst of my people."  Jeremiah 12:16

Scripture Prayer

Pray for today’s people to become well established in their devotion to the Lord alone.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a Disciple Making Movement among Pashtuns in Iran that will spread to Pakistan and Afghanistan.