The name “Azeri” is thought to have come from the fourth century ruler, Atropat, who governed the area that is now northwestern Iran. However, it may have been derived from azer, the Persian word for fire. They are Shia Muslims like the Persian Iranians, but their language is Turkic. The highest number of Azeris live in Iran and Azerbaijan. In fact, Azerbaijan is named after them. They also live in Eastern European countries, and small numbers live in the United States, Sweden and Germany. There are small numbers of Azeris living throughout the Central Asian nations, including Afghanistan. Shia Muslims understand that even the righteous can face injustice and martyrdom. They might be more open to teaching about the death and resurrection of Christ than other Muslims.

Until the twentieth century, most Azeri identified themselves as Muslims rather than Azerbaijani or Turks. They believe that being a “spiritual community of Islam” was much more important than being a nation. This suggests a barrier to the gospel of Christ alone.

Pray for the authority of Christ to bind hindering spiritual forces to lead them from darkness to light.
Pray for signs and wonders among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.
Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them no matter where they live.

Scripture Prayers for the Azerbaijani in Georgia.