Tajik in Uzbekistan

Introduction / History

The Tajiks of Central Asia are the oldest surviving people group in that region. Their homeland, Tajikistan, is the mountainous center of Asia, surrounded by the Asian republics of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan includes the Pamir Mountains, which reach altitudes of nearly 25,000 feet. Most of the people live in the parallel valleys below.

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

The USSR had control of both Tajikistan and Uzbekistan for 70 years. During this time the border between the two countries was murky at best. This set up a situation where there would be animosity between the two after the USSR dissolved in 1991.

After the breakup of the USSR, Tajikistan suffered through years of a civil war which ended in 1997. Tens of thousands were killed and thousands of wives widowed. The economy collapsed, and unemployment was extremely high, up to 70% in some rural areas. Many have gone to other nearby countries like Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to start anew. The Tajiks are very numerous in eastern Uzbekistan and the two cities of Samarkand and Bukhara.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Tajiks have their largest diaspora in neighboring Uzbekistan. With close to two million of them, they are not welcomed as equals when it comes to government benefits or job opportunities. Though they can’t return to Tajikistan, they are often viewed a potential invaders by the Uzbeks. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that important Tajik historical and cultural centers lie within the boundaries of Uzbekistan. The Tajik Cultural Centre in Samarkand, Uzbekistan lost its registration status in 1993, but it continues to operate.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Tajiks in Uzbekistan are Sunni Muslims, although some are Shia, and there is a strong non-religious minority. They have remained closed to the gospel.

What Are Their Needs?

Their traditional Islam has dulled their spirits to their need for forgiveness by a sin-free savior. They have yet to have a movement to Christ among any Tajik population.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to thrust out loving workers to the Tajiks in Uzbekistan.
Pray for a spiritual hunger among the Tajiks in Uzbekistan.
Pray that many among these hospitable people will become persons of peace to pave the way for Christ's ambassadors to take the Lord's blessings to them.
Pray for a movement of Tajik households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project