Han Chinese, Mandarin in Türkiye (Turkey)

Introduction / History

The Han Chinese are the largest ethnic group in the world. Although the vast majority live in mainland China, many have immigrated to other countries, and today they reside in nearly every nation of the world including Turkey.

Most Han Chinese speak one of the many Chinese dialects, which include Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien and Min Bei. The speakers of one Chinese dialect cannot understand the speakers of another. The writing system is the same so they can communicate on paper but not orally.

The Han Chinese fled to other countries after the Mongol invasion in 1276. Many other upheavals and conflicts followed, and the Chinese continued to settle in different nations, especially in Southeast Asia. Wherever they went, the Chinese settled almost exclusively in urban areas and became involved in business and commerce. Today, they are very influential in the economies of many of these nations, including Turkey.

There was long-standing contact between the Chinese and the Ottoman Empires that lasted about 2000 years. During these times there were Turks who lived in China and Chinese who lived among the Ottoman Turks. Today there is a Chinese community in Istanbul that is very active with international trade while others are there to study.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mandarin Chinese in Istanbul are usually part of the business community. Some have local markets and shops while others are involved with import/export business much like their ancestors who traded with the Ottomans. There are Mandarin Chinese students in Turkey, but they will probably return to China after they finish their degrees.

Mandarin Chinese in Turkey are greatly outnumbered by Uighur refugees who fled China. There is probably conflict between the two ethnic groups.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mandarin Chinese in Turkey are secularized, but many have a strong faith in the Lord. These people can take the gospel to the unreached people groups in their adopted country.

What Are Their Needs?

Secularized thinking and a non-stop work schedule make many Mandarin Chinese unable to deal with their spiritual needs. Those who have made Christ their Lord can be used by him to expand God’s kingdom to the lost in their adopted country.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to use vibrant Mandarin Chinese Christ followers to disciple those who need Christ’s touch in Turkey.
Pray for Chinese Christian believers to fill the bowls of incense with prayer for the lost in Turkey.
Pray for the Mandarin Chinese to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find Jesus Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project