Introduction / History

Identity is a complicated thing high in the southern mountains of the Russian province of Dagestan. A member of the Antsukh people might identify with being Antsukh, Avar, Dagestani, yet have Russian citizenship.

But even with a scattered identity, the Antsukh people are noted for their pride. In the second decade of the 21st century, Antsukh Avars are justifiably proud that one of their own was selected as President of the Russian province [Republic] of Dagestan. Pride—both a strength and a weakness—has never been in short supply among the Muslim Antsukh people. They are renowned for high levels of pride, resistance to change, and xenophobic suspicion toward outsiders. All of these traits have kept the people from being humble enough to embrace the sovereign Savior.

Where Are they Located?

The Antsukh Avars live mainly in Dagestan, in Russia's North Caucasus Mountain region.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Like the other people groups in this region, life is hard. They live in a land of harsh winters and harsher neighbors. For centuries the region has been beset by power struggles and violence. Most of them make their living through their livestock.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Antsukh people are devoted to Sunni Islam, though they do not practice it well.

What Are Their Needs?

The Antsukh people desperately need to be released from the clutches of pride and lack of forgiveness.

Prayer Points

* Pray for grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to come to the Antsukh people.
* Pray for representatives of the love of Jesus to find ways to tell the Antsukh about Christ.
* Pray that those who want to know God personally will rise above what they have known for centuries and have courage to respond to the gospel.

References

https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/20468/RS
http://www.peoplegroups.org/Explore/groupdetails.aspx?peid=48684