Arab, Syrian in Iraq
Photo Source:
James Gordon - Wikimedia
Creative Commons
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Map Source:
Bethany World Prayer Center
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| People Name: | Arab, Syrian |
| Country: | Iraq |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 24,000 |
| World Population: | 20,175,700 |
| Primary Language: | Arabic, Levantine |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 3.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.10 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Arab, Levant |
| Affinity Bloc: | Arab World |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Arabs from the Arabian Peninsula are considered to be the original Arabs. The Arabian culture was developed by tribes of nomads and villagers who lived in the Arabian Desert for many centuries. It was also from there that Arab migrations began, eventually leading to the expansion of the Arab world starting with the Levant.
"Levant" is a broad term that includes several groups of Arabs: the Jordanian, Palestinian, Iraqi, Chaldean, and Syrian Arabs. The Arabs originally settled all over the Arabian Peninsula and later migrated to North Africa. They are spread from Israel to Kuwait and as far east as Iran. Most Levant Arabs speak an Arabic language called Arabiya, with varying local dialects. Like Arabs in other parts of the greater Arab world, the Syrians have their own dialect of Arabiya. Ironically, some Syrian Arabs have moved to neighboring Iraq where they also have issues with civil war.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Life is difficult for Syrian Arabs in Syria, so those who can move to safer places. That might be other parts of Syria or other countries. A March 2021 article by Unicef tells us that life is getting more difficult for Syrian refugees in Iraq. They need adequate education and opportunities to earn a living. Since these are not being met, there are "protective measures" including early marriages and child labor. Resources are stretched beyond the limit.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most Syrian Arabs in Iraq are Shafiite Muslim or Alawites. The Shafiites are one of the four schools of Sunni Islam. There are Shia splinter groups among them, namely the Twelvers and Imamis. There is a sizable traditional Christian minority among them as well.
What Are Their Needs?
Syrian Arabs in Iraq need the chance to get their lives back and lead productive lives. This will mean they need educational opportunities and the chance to earn a living.
Prayer Points
Pray for Syrian Arab believers to be blessed with peace and joy in the Holy Spirit in such a way they can reach out to the others who suffer from psychological trauma.
Pray for Syrian Arabs to be open to the blessings of Jesus Christ and His way of salvation through grace.
Pray for the Lord's blessing of Syrian Arabs in Iraq spiritually and psychologically.
Pray for a movement to Christ among Syrian Arabs wherever they live.