Qazilbash in Afghanistan

kiz-uhl-BAHSH

The word Qizilbash is an Ottoman Turkish word referring to red headgear. This headgear was associated with the "twelver" Shi'ite Muslims. The Qizilbash were a coalition of many different tribes of predominantly Turkic-speaking Azerbaijani peoples united in their adherence to Shia Islam and can be traced back to the 15th century. An early leader of the Qizilbash (named Ismail) lead forces which conquered most of what is Iran today, spreading the teachings of Shia Islam. The Qizilbash have a reputation for being skilled warriors and have long been associated with sources of power. The predominantly Sunni Muslims of Afghanistan have sometimes resented the Shia Qizilbash.

Ministry Obstacles

The religious zeal of the Qizilbash people can be a huge obstacle to the gospel since it is misplaced.

Outreach Ideas

Their religious zeal can potentially become an asset if the Holy Spirit leads them to directing that zeal into devotion to the Savior who died to pay for their sins.

Scripture Focus

"Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil,"  Hebrews 2:14

Scripture Prayer

Pray for today’s people group to escape the power of death and the devil and to flee to Jesus Christ.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead the Qizilbash people to the cross. Pray for a clear presentation of the gospel message among the Qizilbash that will lead to a movement to Christ. Pray that God will raise up laborers who are willing to reach the Qizilbash for Christ, no matter what the cost. Pray for a church planting movement among the Qizilbash people.