Algerian, Arabic-speaking in Türkiye (Turkey)

People Name:	Algerian, Arabic-speaking
Country:	Türkiye (Turkey)
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	11,000
World Population:	37,280,900
Primary Language:	Arabic, Algerian
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Arab, Maghreb
Affinity Bloc:	Arab World
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

For thousands of years the whole of North Africa inhabited by Berber tribes, also known as the Imazighen, meaning "free people." During the seventh century, Arab armies stormed through this entire region, and for hundreds of years, there has been a blending of Arabic and Berber cultures and languages. The Arabic spoken in this region include loan words from Berber languages. In sum, this region is much like a cultural "ecotone" where there is a blend of two different types of communities. To make matters even more complicated, there are Bedouin tribes who blend in with this mix, and there are various degrees of "Arabization." For this reason, the terms "Arab" and "Berber" need to be taken loosely. It's very possible that whoever wanted to aid a church planting movement would have to deal with all of these complexities.

Some Arabic-speaking Algerians have migrated to Turkey, a country with a very different language. Turkey’s roots are in the long-lasting Ottoman Empire which came after the power of the Arabs was curtailed. There is a deep-rooted friendship between Algeria and the Ottoman Turks.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Turkey is a favorite destination for Algerian tourists. Algerians often invest in Turkey. Most do not settle in Turkey but come as students. Only a small number are there to stay.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Algerian Arabs are almost entirely Sunni Muslims. A central part of the Algerian Arab's identity is in being Muslim, even though they are known to seek other spiritual answers when grappling with a practical need like illnesses.

What Are Their Needs?

Algerian Arabs in Turkey need to accept the abundant life that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Prayer Points

Pray for a movement to Christ among Algerian Arabs everywhere.
Pray for them to seek and find answers in Christ.
Pray for Christ's ambassadors to go to Turkey to seek and find the lost.
Pray for Algerian family leaders to have dreams of the risen Christ, leading them to open their families to the only savior.