Bosniak in Türkiye (Turkey)

Introduction / History

Bosniaks are an ethnic group living in the southeastern part of Europe, mainly in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is proposed that their 'genetic roots' are reflective of numerous pre-historic components, especially signatures thought to be 'autochthonous' to the Dinaric region, where the historical Illyrians later appeared.

The earliest known inhabitants of the area now known as Bosnia and Herzegovina were the Illyrians, who spoke a language related to modern Albanian. The Romans conquered Illyria after a series of wars, and Latin-speaking settlers from all over the empire settled among the Illyrians.

In the Seventh Century, Slavs settled in Bosnia, Herzegovina and the surrounding lands. In 1463 the Turkish Ottoman Empire conquest at that time the independent Bosnian kingdom and it was the beginning of the influence of Islamic Civilization in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What is Bosnia was once part of the expansive Ottoman Empire. The dissolution of this empire in the late 19th and early 20th centuries meant peoples were scattered, including Bosniaks. Some of them were settled in what we now call Turkey.

Various instances of ethnic cleansing and genocide have had a tremendous effect on the territorial distribution of the Bosniak population, especially in the late 20th century. Partially due to this, a notable Bosniak diaspora exists in a number of countries, including Austria, Germany, Australia, Sweden, the United States and Turkey.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Bosniaks have contributed to Turkey as politicians and actors.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Bosniaks are Sunni Muslim, although historically Sufism has also played a significant role among them. For many Bosniaks, Islamic identity has more to do with cultural roots than with religious beliefs. Even among most religious Bosniaks, there is a disdain for religious leaders exercising any influence over day-to-day life. Bosniaks are no different than other Muslims in that they view Islam from the foundation that is their culture.

What Are Their Needs?

Bosniaks in Turkey need the chance to experience the abundant life Jesus Christ has to offer. As it stands, this is not likely to happen soon.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to go to Turkey and share Christ with the Bosniaks.
Ask God to encourage the few known Bosniak believers in this region.
Pray that God will meet the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of Bosniaks.
Ask the Lord to raise strong local churches among Bosniaks.

Text Source:   Joshua Project