Jabal Nafusah in Libya
jah-BAHL na-FOO-sah

Lying southwest of Tripoli, the rocky Jebel Nefusa Plateau rises to an elevation of about 3,000 feet. A unique aspect of Nafusah villages is the famous troglodyte houses. These are underground homes carved vertically or horizontally into the soft limestone and marls (a mixture of clay, sand and limestone). Although most Libyans are Sunni Muslims, the Nefusa belong to a tiny Islamic sect called Ibadaya. Ibadaya originated in the seventh century when disputes arose concerning how religious leaders should be chosen. The Ibadis withdrew from mainstream Islam and relocated in several countries. Ibadism was received enthusiastically in several northwestern African countries as a vehicle for opposing the Sunni (orthodox) Muslims and the Arab conquerors.

Ministry Obstacles
Libya is currently experiencing much turmoil and the dangers are many.

Outreach Ideas
Pray the growing number of Christians among the Berber peoples would become strong enough to reach all of the tribes of North Africa with the gospel.

Scripture Focus
"On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water."  John 7:37-38

Scripture Prayer
Pray for this people group to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit and the overflowing, gracious love of God.

Prayer Focus
There are growing numbers of believers among the Berber peoples of North Africa, and there may be a few believers among the Nafusah people. Pray for all peoples in Libya at this time. Pray for a stable and effective government that will be able to protect the people and provide stability in the country.



Presented by Joshua Project
www.joshuaproject.net