Zaza-Dimli in Türkiye (Turkey)

ZAH-zah DIM-lee

Dimli means "of Dailam". It is likely these people are descendants of those who lived in the region of the Caspian sea called Dailam. They have been fierce warriors, focused on conquest. The Dimli differ from the Kurds in two ways: language and religion. They have a distinct dialect, and are seen as heretics by the Kurds, who are Sunnis. The Dimli follow Alevi Shiite religious traditions.

Ministry Obstacles

There is a need for Scripture and other language-based resources in the language of the Zaza-Dimli.

Outreach Ideas

Gospel radio broadcasts will be helpful, but sustained prayer is needed for the Zaza-Dimli.

Scripture Focus

"Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—"  1 Peter 2:2

Scripture Prayer

Pray that the believers in today’s people group would long for the word of God and grow into spiritual maturity.

Prayer Focus

Pray the few believers among the Zaza-Diml would grow in sharing and discussing God's Word with their families and communities. There are few if any followers of Jesus among this people group, but pray for those that will soon be evident. Pray that Zaza-Dimli believers would be well grounded in Scripture, and would be zealous to grow in the faith. Pray for these people to live peaceful lives, establishing good relationships with the Turkish government and other ethnic groups.