Tajik in Netherlands

Introduction / History

The Tajiks of Central Asia are the oldest surviving people group in that region. The Tajiks have repeatedly been invaded and conquered throughout their history. The armies of Alexander the Great, the Arabs in the seventh century, Genghis Khan, the Turks, the British, and the Russian empire have all had a profound impact on these people. In fact, the numerous invasions have been the major factor in the dispersion of the Tajik to other locations. Many Tajik have crossed over into Afghanistan and are still surrounded by war, ethnic violence, religious tension, and harsh living conditions.

After the breakup of the USSR, Tajikistan suffered through years of a civil war which ended in 1997. However, tens of thousands had been killed and thousands of wives widowed. The economy collapsed, and unemployment was extremely high, up to 70 percent in some rural areas. Some of them moved to other countries with a strong economy like the Netherlands.

Where Are they Located?

The majority of the Tajiks live in either Tajikistan or Afghanistan. Some have migrated to Uzbekistan, Pakistan or Russia. A smaller number live in Western European countries.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some came to European countries as students, but most came to find asylum in the 1990s from an intolerable political situation. There are few Tajiks in the Netherlands, so it is difficult for them to form their own cultural community. Often when this happens, a small community will join a larger one that is culturally similar.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Nestorian missionaries first brought Christianity to the Tajiks during the 12th century. Today, Tajiks are Sunni Muslims, although some are Shi 'ites. About one-tenth of the people are classified as non-religious. This has probably been a result of Russian atheistic pressure during the communist years.

Tajiks tend to be spiritual people and are often open to at least a discussion of spiritual things. They understand the concept of sacrifice, which could be a redemptive analogy to the Lamb of God dying on the cross. However almost all remain closed to the gospel.

What Are Their Needs?

Tajiks need to see examples of people living for Christ in a victorious way.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Tajik people to understand and embrace that Jesus wants to bless their families and neighborhoods.
Pray for His kingdom to come and His will to be done among the Tajik people.
Pray for a movement of Jesus to heal and strengthen Tajik communities and families in Europe.
Pray for Tajik disciples to make more disciples who will make even more disciples.

Text Source:   Keith Carey