Introduction / History

Libya, which lies along the southern edge of the Mediterranean in North Africa, is country that is largely desert or semi-desert. A large majority of the population of the country are Libyan Arabs or Arabized Berbers. They were mainly a nomadic society with a heritage of Bedouin traditions. Family life is a strong value for Libyan Arab families, and they still associate themselves with a particular Bedouin tribe.
Libya became independent from Italy in December of 1951. The discovery of oil in the 1950s radically changed the people's way of life. Now most of the population, who once lived in tents, have settled down in towns and cities along the coast and live in apartment blocks or homes. They had a couple of decades of prosperity before the death of long-term dictator, Muammar Muhammad Abu Minyar al-Gaddafi in 2011. Since that time Libya has been wracked by civil war as militias try to fill in the power vacuum. As a result, their people have fled to many other countries to earn a living, including Turkey.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In Turkey, Libyan Arabs must adjust to a different language and culture. Some have good jobs while others are struggling to earn a living.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Simon of Cyrene, who carried the cross of Jesus, was from Libya, and Cyrenian Jews carried the Gospel back to Libya after Pentecost. Islam replaced Christianity in 624 A.D. Today there are few Christians among any Libyan Arabs, including those in Diaspora. Those in Turkey attend Sunni Muslim mosques with the Turkish majority.

What Are Their Needs?

This is the time when Libyan Arabs are facing turmoil. Christ followers can offer them the comfort of the one who brought us life to the full (John 10:10).

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Libyan Arabs everywhere, especially in Turkey.
Ask God to show workers creative ways to take Bibles and Christian literature to Libyan Arabs in Turkey
Pray that Libyan students studying abroad and businessmen traveling would hear the Word of God and believe.
Pray for Libyan disciples to make more disciples.

Scripture Prayers for the Arab, Libyan in Türkiye (Turkey).