Muhamasheen in Libya

It is believed the Muhamasheen are descendants of Ethiopian soldiers in the sixth century who moved into the Middle East to conquer. Unsuccessful, they were expelled at the start of the Islamic era in the region. Those who stayed behind when the army left became slaves, hence the name they are usually known by: Akhdam. They live in fierce poverty, discriminated against and helped by only a handful. Many of the men work as street sweepers when work can be found. The women and children collect cans and bottles for income and beg. Almost none of the children attend school. It is said that most of the Muhamasheen have internalized their low status and do not try to better themselves, find real jobs or seek an education. Much of their meager income goes to buy qat, a stimulant.

Ministry Obstacles

Libya is in a state of turmoil, and access to the peoples of that country by Christian missionaries is quite dangerous and difficult.

Outreach Ideas

Poor and marginalized people are often the most responsive to the gospel message when it comes. Pray the Muhamasheen will be privileged to soon hear accurately who Jesus is and of his offer of eternal life and abundant life.

Scripture Focus

"I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we were commanded by the Father."  2 John 1:4

Scripture Prayer

Pray for this people group to learn to walk in the truth and to obey the commandments of God.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the handful of Christ-followers among the Muhamasheen. They need to be instructed in the ways of Christ. Literacy rates are very low, so they need teachers to communicate to them in Arabic. Pray these desperately poor and marginalized people would be able to escape the bonds of their low status. Their youth need to gain literacy and other skills that will make them employable. Pray they would be delivered from the self-image which makes them feel hopeless.