Ansari in Afghanistan

Introduction / History

The Ansari reside in most countries of South Asia, and a small number are in Afghanistan.

Ansari is Arabic and is derived from Ansar (also Arabic) which has a literal meaning of "those who support". It is considered to be primarily a nisbat which is a second or suffix name used as a specifier. Ansar originated from the Medinan people who assisted the prophet Muhammed as he migrated from Mecca to Medina. These people later became his emissaries and soldiers.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are predominately artisans by trade and are mostly poor. The weaving of silk is a common trade skill of these people. Although traditionally weavers and textile sellers, the Ansaris are now involved in a wide range of small businesses in towns. They tend to be clannish and guarded about marriage within the group. Commonly women Ansaris wear bangles and beads. Glass bangles are a symbol of married women in some communities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Ansaris are Muslims who practice folk Islam, which incorporates many folk beliefs into their observance of the religion. There are almost no followers of Christ among the Muslim Ansaris. In Afghanistan, there probably are none.

What Are Their Needs?

The Lord needs to communicate directly with Ansari elders through dreams and visions. They are isolated by the Islamic religion, but also by living in Afghanistan.

Prayer Points

Pray that Ansari Muslims will have dreams and visions that cause them to seek to inquire about Jesus.
Pray for Christ-followers in Afghanistan to reach the Ansari people with the gospel.
Pray for Ansari leaders who have heard the gospel that their hearts will turn to following Christ.
Pray for good schools where Ansari children can get an education that helps to lift them out of poverty.

Text Source:   Joshua Project