Tabasaran in Russia

Tabasaran live in the foothills of northeast Dagestan, and in the mountains near the Darvag, Rubas, Chirah-Chai and Karchag-Su rivers. Tabasaran are some of the first people mentioned in historical sources for the Caucasus region. The Islamic faith was adopted in the 8th to 9th centuries, following Arab conquests. Earlier, paganism was widespread among the Tabasaran. To the present day, many pagan traditions have persisted and adjusted to Islam. Their homeland was taken by Russia in 1806. One Tabasaran individual became a follower of Jesus Christ in 1997, and now several dozen more have come to faith.

Ministry Obstacles

On several levels the Caucasus region is hostile to overt Christian witness. Potential workers will face obstacles from the Russian government and the local people.

Scripture Focus

"So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, Do you understand what you are reading?"  Acts 8:30

Scripture Prayer

Pray that the Lord gives today’s people group a desire to hear and to understand God’s words.

Prayer Focus

Pray for peace between people groups and with the Russian government throughout Dagestan and the entire Caucasus region. Two thrilling Tabasaran Christian music recordings, in authentic Tabasaran style, have widely circulated through the culture. Pray that these and other such resources will bring many to Christ. Pray the handful of followers of Jesus Christ among the Tabasaran people will grow into the likeness of Christ, living consistently in the power of his Spirit.