Tabasaran in Russia

People Name:	Tabasaran
Country:	Russia
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	151,000
World Population:	153,200
Primary Language:	Tabasaran
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.10 %
Evangelicals:	0.10 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Caucasus
Affinity Bloc:	Eurasian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

Tabasaran live in the foothills of northeast Dagestan, and in the mountains near the Darvag, Rubas, Chirah-Chai and Karchag-Su rivers. Tabasaran are some of the first people mentioned in historical sources for the Caucasus region. The Islamic faith was adopted in the 8th to 9th centuries, following Arab conquests. Earlier, paganism was widespread among the Tabasaran. To the present day, many pagan traditions have persisted and adjusted to Islam. Their homeland was taken by Russia in 1806. One Tabasaran individual became a follower of Jesus Christ in 1997, and now several dozen more have come to faith.

Ministry Obstacles

On several levels the Caucasus region is hostile to overt Christian witness. Potential workers will face obstacles from the Russian government and the local people.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray for peace between people groups and with the Russian government throughout Dagestan and the entire Caucasus region.
Two thrilling Tabasaran Christian music recordings, in authentic Tabasaran style, have widely circulated through the culture. Pray that these and other such resources will bring many to Christ.
Pray the handful of followers of Jesus Christ among the Tabasaran people will grow into the likeness of Christ, living consistently in the power of his Spirit.