Mountain Jewish in Azerbaijan

The Jews in Azerbaijan believe they are descended from Jews taken captive by the Assyrians and displaced to the cities of the Medes. They spoke a dialect of Old Persian upon which the Azerbaijani Jewish Tat language is based. Because of their unique history and culture, the Jews of Azerbaijan have a strong sense of identity. Although they have much in common with other Jews around the world, they have a very distinctive lifestyle. Many of these Jews are Ashkenazim, descendants of Jews who inhabited the Germanic regions of Europe. After World War II, they lived in the Caucasus Mountains of the Soviet Union. Today, they are known as the “Mountain Jews,” scattered in the mountains of Azerbaijan. Some continue to follow the Law of Moses while others have intermarried with Muslims.

Ministry Obstacles

Reaching them will require overcoming entrenched religious systems and political and geographical barriers.

Scripture Focus

"Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations."  Psalm 90:1

Scripture Prayer

Pray that today’s people group will make the Lord their “home” forever.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the Jews of Azerbaijan to be open to hearing about their Messiah. Pray for laborers, anointed by the Holy Spirit, who will invest themselves in reaching this precious people group. Their location presents a challenge. Scripture resources are available in their languages. Pray for radio and television outreach. Pray for workers willing to take these resources to the mountain villages. Pray they would see much fruit.