Mahra in Yemen

People Name:	Mahra
Country:	Yemen
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	106,000
World Population:	248,900
Primary Language:	Mehri
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.10 %
Evangelicals:	0.05 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	No
People Cluster:	Arab, Arabian
Affinity Bloc:	Arab World
Progress Level:

Introduction

The Mahra are a smaller Arabic group who live near the borders of Saudi Arabia and Oman. The Sunni Muslim Mahra are classified as semi-nomadic warriors, a position of low recognition by Arab standards. Most Mahra Arabs operate in tribes each ruled by a sheik who is considered an expert in Islam and relating to outsiders. He oversees tribal affairs including the grazing territory for the herds. They believe children are a family's greatest asset. Boys receive inheritances through the patrilineal system. Girls are valued for raising families through marriage. Mahra share daily coffee and planning times. Outreach workers could connect through this setting. Any Mahra followers of Jesus need prayer support to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. A profession of faith in Jesus may cost a Mahra his family, his honor, his job, and sometimes his life. The Arabs' lifestyle and belief system challenge evangelization.

Ministry Obstacles

There are no resources in the Mehri language. However, Yemeni Arabic resources are available for the many who speak it.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Ask the Lord of the harvest to open the doors of Yemen to the gospel.
Ask the Holy Spirit to call people to share the love of Christ.
Pray that a network of strong local churches would be raised up among the Mahra.
Pray for peace and justice to reign in Yemen.