Sayyid in Sri Lanka

People Name:	Sayyid
Country:	Sri Lanka
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	51,000
World Population:	17,921,000
Primary Language:	Tamil
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Muslim - Sayyid
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Sayyid or Syed are among the largest Muslim communities in South Asia, but there are not many in Sri Lanka. They are said to trace their lineage directly back to the daughter of the Prophet Mohammad himself, Syed-un-Nisa Fatima Zehra. The Sayyid in South Asia came by sea over 600 years ago.

Where Are they Located?

There are large populations of Sayyid in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. Smaller numbers live in Nepal and Sri Lanka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Sayyid occupy the highest of social class among Muslims. They are traditionally the priests and religious teachers of the Muslim communities. More recently they can be found in a host of government service, teaching and business occupations. They marry mainly among their own clans.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sayyid are 100 percent Sunni Muslim. They are very serious about their religion and very dedicated to seeing others remain in the Islamic fold. Because of their position as religious teachers and priests they are considered 100% Muslim in each of the countries where their live. The Sayyid can be found in both major sect divisions of the Shia and the Sunni.

What Are Their Needs?

Because of the shear religious and political weight that the Sayyid carry in their respective communities, a transformed Sayyid leader for Christ could have influence like that of "Paul" in his day. Whole districts could be convinced to be followers of Jesus (whom Muslims call Isa al-Masih) if Sayyid leaders came to know and trust the truth. Pray for dreams and visions among these people.

Prayer Points

Pray for a "Book of Acts" type of movement to Christ among the Sayyid in Sri Lanka.
Pray for the Sayyid people to understand and embrace that Jesus wants to bless their families and neighborhoods.
Pray for Holy Spirit anointed believers from the Sayyid people to change their society from within.
Pray for a movement in which the Holy Spirit leads and empowers Sayyid disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for a movement of Jesus to heal and strengthen Sayyid communities.