Tajik in Tajikistan

Introduction / History

The Tajiks of Central Asia are the oldest surviving people group in that region. Their homeland, Tajikistan, is the mountainous center of Asia, surrounded by the Asian republics of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan includes the Pamir Mountains, which reach altitudes of nearly 25,000 feet. Most of the people live in the parallel valleys below.

The Tajiks have repeatedly been invaded and conquered throughout their history. The armies of Alexander the Great, the Arabs in the seventh century, Genghis Khan, the Turks, the British and the Russian empire have all had a profound impact on these people. In fact, the numerous invasions have been the major factor in the dispersion of Tajiks to other locations. Many Tajiks have crossed over into Afghanistan and are still surrounded by war, ethnic violence, religious tension, and harsh living conditions.

After the breakup of the USSR, Tajikistan still suffered through years of a civil war which ended in 1997. However, tens of thousands had been killed and thousands of wives widowed. The economy collapsed, and unemployment was extremely high, up to 70% in some rural areas.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Tajiks are farmers and shepherds. Seasonal grasses create suitable pastures for raising sheep, goats, cattle, camels and horses. They also practice a remarkable system of terraced, mountainside irrigation so that wheat and barley can be grown at the higher, dry altitudes. An increasing number of Tajiks have moved to the cities over the past 60 years. Poetry plays an important part in Tajik culture. It is read and often sung at important celebrations. Even the Koran has been put to music.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Buddhists typically have little awareness of their own sin and their need for forgiveness. The Tai Nua do not realize their need for a savior.PRGRPHAlthough they are nominally Theravada Buddhists, the Tai Nua have many aspects of animism and polytheism mixed into their beliefs. The very first Tai god was Shalou, the god of hunting. Before a hunt, they offered sacrifices to Shalou to avert danger and to ensure success in the hunt.

What Are Their Needs?

The Tai Nua people need to hear that Jesus Christ offers them so much more than the spirit world can offer. They need to place their faith in Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray that Tajik believers would live such holy lives that others would desire to have the same spiritual riches found only in Christ.
Pray that Tajiks would not judge Christianity as a "Russian religion," but see their own need for salvation and the forgiveness of their sins from a sinless savior.
Ask God to raise up more long-term missionaries.
Ask the Lord to raise up a movement to Christ among the Tajiks soon.

Text Source:   Joshua Project