Georgian, Ajari in Russia

Introduction / History

Adjarians are like Georgians in almost every respect, except for their extensive history with Islam. The ancestors of the Adjarians were once Christian. However, in the seventeenth century the Turkish Ottoman Empire conquered Adjara and many people converted to Islam. Adjara remained under Turkish rule until 1878, when it was seized by the Russian Empire. By that time Adjarians had been Muslim for ten to fifteen generations.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though the cost of living is low, the unemployment rate is high. As expected, Ajari Georgians in rural areas are more conservative than those in urban centers. Traffic is chaotic in Georgian cities.

Because Georgia has been at the crossroads of a major trade route for hundreds of years, their cuisine is influenced by many other ethnic groups. They display their culinary skills during a feast called supra. Aged wine is an important part of these feasts. The toastmaster holds a high position of honor at supra feasts.

What Are Their Beliefs?

However, the region’s religious balance appears to have shifted significantly, with many young Adjarians in particular succumbing to the implicit societal pressure to adopt a ‘true’ Georgian identity. It’s thus estimated that only 30% of Adjara’s population now considers itself Muslim, mainly in the Khulo district. Turkey’s influence in the region remains strong, in part through funding provided by Ankara for local mosques and for young Adjarians to study at Turkish universities.

What Are Their Needs?

The Ajari Georgians need to decide whom they want to serve. Do they want the God of grace and mercy or the God of Islam. As it stands, they are vulnerable to making decisions based on political expediency.

Prayer Points

Pray that the forces of darkness will be defeated and the Adjarians will follow Christ.
Pray that Ajarians will hear the message of Christ and then testify about Christ among their people.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to work among the Adjarians, for them to get rid of anything that deprives them of their freedom.
Pray for Christianity to be honored in their traditions, and the Gospel will become attractive to them.
Pray for whole Adjarian families to turn to Christ.
Ask that Adjarian Christians will share the light of the gospel to other people groups who come to Adjara.

Text Source:   Joshua Project