Introduction / History

Various estimates place the world Deaf population at between 30 and 70 million. Taken as a whole, these communities would comprise one of the largest unreached people groups in the world. Unlike most people groups, Deaf people can be found in every country in the world, and often blend in with the broader community around them. They have to communicate through sign language, and Libya has their own version of it.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In many situations Deaf people are viewed as disability groups, but one can also approach them as a separate people group. They have their own unique languages and culture. Many Deaf people value their language and culture so much that if given the chance to become hearing, they would refuse.

There are many common experiences shared by Deaf people around the world that contribute to Deaf culture. Since most Deaf people are born to hearing parents, and very few of those parents learn to sign, many Deaf people are isolated from their family and the broader community. Instead of acquiring language from their parents, many acquire language from other Deaf in the community or from a Deaf school.

While many Deaf people have some degree of bilingualism, for most of them it is impossible to fully learn a spoken language which they cannot hear. It is becoming more common around the world for Deaf people to learn more than one sign language.

In the 21st century, technology has presented new possibilities for communication between the Deaf and hearing peoples of Libya and beyond. Social media allows the Deaf to communicate with those from other parts of the world. It also provides new avenues for presenting the gospel.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Little or no Bible translation work has been done in Libyan sign languages. Limited access to education makes learning a spoken language well enough to read scripture exceedingly difficult. Their communication challenges prevent Deaf people from getting good jobs.

What Are Their Needs?

Pray for loving and understanding missionaries, especially those who are also Deaf.

Pray for Deaf Christ followers to take the Savior to the Deaf in Libya.

Pray for the Lord to reach Deaf people in Libya with dreams of the victorious and loving Savior, Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Scripture Prayers for the Deaf in Libya.

References

https://www.unspokenasl.com/aslblogs/the-impact-of-technology-on-deaf-culture-in-libya-how-technology-is-shaping-the-future-of-deaf-identity/
https://2012-2017.usaid.gov/libya/program-updates/deaf-vote-heard-voice-one-mans-quest-libya
https://mrds.org/libya/