Arab, Lebanese general in United Arab Emirates

Arab, Lebanese general
Photo Source:  DFID - UK - Flickr  Creative Commons 
Send Joshua Project a map of this people group.
People Name: Arab, Lebanese general
Country: United Arab Emirates
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 27,000
World Population: 5,105,600
Primary Language: Arabic, Levantine
Primary Religion: Islam
Christian Adherents: 5.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.50 %
Scripture: Portions
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: Arab, Levant
Affinity Bloc: Arab World
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Lebanese Arabs are considered Levantine Arabs because they once lived in a region known as "the Levant." This included Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria, as well as Egypt, Iraq and Turkey. They originally spoke Aramaic and followed Canaanite culture and language. Gradually, they began to speak Arabic and practice Islam. A small number of Lebanese Arabs can now be found in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

What Are Their Lives Like?

Social life is extremely important to Lebanese Arabs. They like to gather to sit on the floor and drink coffee from cups without handles. Their diet consists mainly of wheat bread and porridge made with boiled meat or chicken.

Despite following Islamic teachings, a class system still exists. Classes can be distinguished by clothing. Levant tribesmen dress differently than other villagers. The women wear veils both in town and at home.

In an effort to preserve their people, Lebanese Arabs are only allowed to marry inside their own group. Lebanese Arab society is patrilineal - inheritances are passed down through the males. In this system, boys inherit more than girls. Children are considered a family's greatest asset and females are valued for their ability to bear children.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Lebanese Arabs have had a close association with Islam throughout their history. Islam still greatly influences their lives.

What Are Their Needs?

The Lebanese Arabs in the UAE are mostly Muslim. A Muslim who professes faith in Jesus Christ can lose his family, his honor, his job or even his life. Intercession is crucial to reaching them with the gospel.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will raise up faithful intercessors who will stand in the gap for Lebanese Arabs.
Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to reach out and share the love of Christ with them.
Ask God to give the Lebanese Arab believers opportunities to share the love of Christ with their own people.
Pray for open doors in the UAE to share the gospel.
Ask the Lord to raise up Lebanese disciples who will make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project