Bedouin, Arosien in Western Sahara

Introduction / History

There are many tribes in the Saharan Desert; among them are the Arosien people. For centuries, they have been living in an inhospitable region where food and water are difficult to find. Islam came out of the Arabian Peninsula, and the first converts were from Bedouin tribes. It reached the Arosien people later, since Islam originated hundreds of miles to the east of what is now Western Sahara.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Saharan Bedouin like the Arosien tribe have long been nomads, but in recent years have become more settled. Governments impose their will on Bedouin peoples, restrict their movement, and force them to settle. The government of Western Sahara is less powerful than those of nearby nations, so the Arosien tribe has more freedom than Bedouins further east. Bedouin tribes have a patriarchal family structure. Inheritance is from the father's side of the family. The father or grandfather takes leadership. They sometimes call him their sheikh. Sheikhs are advised by a tribal council made up of male elders. Saharan Bedouins are suspicious and alert, not revealing much about their personal background.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Early converts to Islam came from Bedouin tribes, and Sunni Islam is embedded and deeply rooted in Bedouin culture. Prayer is an integral part of Bedouin life. As there are no formal mosques in the desert, they pray where they are, facing the Ka'aba in Mecca.

What Are Their Needs?

Remote peoples like the Arosien tribe seldom have access to adequate schools or hospitals. They need more drinkable water.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual hunger that will draw the Arosien tribe to the foot of the cross.
Pray for Arosien elders and leaders to have dreams and visions of the risen Christ.
Pray for the Lord to make a way for Christ's ambassadors to go to the Arosien tribe.
Pray for a movement to Christ among the Arosien and other Bedouin tribes.

Text Source:   Joshua Project