Introduction / History

The early Islamic period was a time when "Arab identity" meant that all Arabs had descended from a common male ancestor. Thus, being an Arab brought recognition, honor and certain privileges. While there are several characteristics that determine whether a person is a true Arab, one trait is always evident: a proud sense of being an Arab. Their physical, geographical, and religious aspects all vary greatly; however, the ability to speak Arabic (or an Arabic dialect) and identification with the Arabian cultural heritage are, perhaps, the two most essential elements.
In the modern world, traditional values among Arabs have been altered. This can be attributed to the pressure to urbanize, industrialize and de-tribalize. Today, few modern Arabs live as desert shepherds, and significant Arab communities now live in almost all western countries. Some are in Brazil, South America.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, many of the Arabs live in cities and towns, including those who live in Brazil. This has caused traditional family and tribal ties to be broken down somewhat. Women, as well as men, now have greater educational and employment opportunities. These and other changes have created a new "middle class" within their society.
The Diaspora Arab communities fit into this new "middle class" category. Because the Diaspora Arabs have been exposed to western culture on a grand scale, their traditional culture and way of life have undergone many changes. As a result, they have experienced much tension.
For most of the Diaspora Arabs, there have been a greater variety of job opportunities. This has greatly aided their poor living conditions. However, it has also weakened their traditional family ties. There is greater freedom for women to leave the home, fewer arranged marriages, and less social pressure to conform to traditional religious practices.
In comparison to the traditional desert or village Arab, the social structure of the Diaspora Arab is very complex. Today, most Diaspora Arabs identify themselves by nationality rather than tribal affiliations.
Though political unity is still a dream among Arabs, the Arabic language remains the greatest common tie. To preserve their original language, Arabs have maintained two forms of Arabic. The first is "classical Arabic," the religious and literary language that is spoken and written uniformly throughout the Arab world. The second is "colloquial Arabic," the informal spoken language which varies by dialect from region to region. Both forms are used by educated Arabs.
While Islam and Christianity share many beliefs about God and historical figures, many Muslims view faith in Christ as a threat.

What Are Their Beliefs?

It was early in the seventh century that Mohammed first preached the tenets of Islam to the Arabs. His successors quickly spread the word of Allah far and wide. Wherever Arabs went, they left elements of their Arab culture, including their religion.
The historical link between Arabs and the Islamic religion is still very strong. Today, most Arabs are Muslims, belonging to several sects: the Shia ("Ithna Ashari" or "Ismaeli"), the Alawi, the Zaidi, and the Sunni. Sunni Muslims are the majority group.

What Are Their Needs?

Fundamentalist Muslims are very outspoken against Christianity. Much prayer is needed to break down the barriers that separate them from Jesus.
Resources in the various Arabic dialects are available; however, a greater effort must be made to effectively minister to them since they are so widespread.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to reach out and share the love of Christ with them.
Pray that God will raise up faithful intercessors who will stand in the gap for the Arabs in Brazil.
Ask God to strengthen, encourage, and protect the small number of Arabs who have decided to follow Christ.
Pray that the softening of their traditional culture will create open doors for the gospel to be preached among them.
Ask the Holy Spirit to soften the hearts of the Arabs towards Christians so that they will be receptive to the gospel.
Ask the Lord to raise up strong local churches among the Diaspora Arabs in Brazil.

Scripture Prayers for the Arab, general in Brazil.