Algerian, Arabic-speaking in Tunisia

Introduction / History

For thousands of years the whole of North Africa has been inhabited by Berber tribes, also known as the Imazighen, meaning "free people." During the seventh century, Arab armies stormed through this entire region, and for hundreds of years, there has been a blending of Arabic and Berber cultures and languages. The Arabic spoken in this region includes loan words from Berber languages. In sum, this region is much like a cultural "ecotone" where there is a blend of two different types of communities. To make matters even more complicated, there are Bedouin tribes who blend in with this mix, and there are various degrees of "Arabization." For this reason, the terms "Arab" and "Berber" need to be taken loosely.

There are Algerian Arabs in Algeria and Algerian Arabs in neighboring Tunisia, the latter being far fewer in number. It's very possible that whoever wanted to aid a church planting movement would have to deal with all of these complexities.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Algerian Arabs in Tunisia must learn a different, though similar, dialect of Arabic to communicate with the Tunisians. Throughout the Arabic-speaking world people communicate in Egyptian Arabic since that is the language of the media.

Algerians are often visitors, not permanent residents, in Tunisia. Many come for the more liberal lifestyle allowing for bars and nightclubs. The two countries have strong ties that date back to colonial days. Tunisia and Algeria have been known to help one another in times of need.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Algerian Arabs are almost entirely Sunni Muslims. The few Algerians who have accepted the salvation of Christ are almost all from the Berber tribes. A central part of the Algerian Arab's identity is in being Muslim, even though they are known to seek other spiritual answers when grappling with a practical need like illness.

What Are Their Needs?

Algerian Arabs in Tunisia need to accept the abundant life that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Prayer Points

Pray for a movement to Christ among Algerian Arabs everywhere.
Pray for them to seek and find answers in Christ.
Pray for Christ's ambassadors to go to Libya to seek and find the lost.
Ask God to give mission agencies improved strategies for reaching Algerian Arabs for Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project