Introduction / History

While the origins of the Azerbaijanis, (also known as the Azeris), are unclear, we do know that they have been subjected to numerous invasions throughout their history. The homeland of the Azeris was first conquered by the Persians in the sixth century B.C. Islam was introduced into the area during the seventh century A.D. and has been practiced there ever since.

By the eleventh century, Persian influence was overpowered by Turkic influence, which explains the blending of Turkic and Persian aspects of their culture.

Numerous invasions, and the tribal nature of the people, caused the Azeris to spread throughout Central Asia. Today, there are significant Azeri communities in Turkey, Ukraine, Russia, Armenia, Iraq, and especially Iran and Azerbaijan, their homeland. There are smaller pockets of Azerbaijanis in former Soviet republics including Moldova, Belarus, Lithuania, Estonia, and Georgia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Azeris in Lithuania have a good relationship with the local people. There is an Azerbaijani youth association where the Azeris can demonstrate their music and build cultural bridges with the majority people. There are very few Azeris in Lithuania.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Because of the Azeri's historical ties with Iran, Shia Islam is dominant. The Azeris are primarily of the Ithna Ashari (Twelver's) tradition of Shia Islam, which they believe emphasizes the importance of 12 divinely ordained leaders, one of whom they believe will appear with Christ in the end times. There are also some Sunni Muslims among them. Until the twentieth century, most Azeris identified more with Islam than with their nationality. These beliefs were modified, especially under the atheistic rule of the USSR.

What Are Their Needs?

Their most important need is to understand and accept the fact that Jesus Christ gave his life in their place in full payment of the penalty of their sins.

Bible resources exist in their language of Azerbaijani, North, however, they remain unreached. Who will tell them?

Prayer Points

Pray for dedicated, Holy Spirit anointed workers to go to the Azeris wherever they live.
Pray for spiritual discernment and hunger among these Shia Muslims.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Azeri family heads, so they will be willing to listen to the gospel with open hearts and minds.
Pray for a Disciple Making Movement among Azeris.

Scripture Prayers for the Azerbaijani in Lithuania.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azerbaijani_diaspora
https://azeritimes.com/2022/11/09/day-of-azerbaijani-culture-to-be-held-in-lithuania/