Alawite in Syria

People Name:	Alawite
Country:	Syria
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	1,755,000
World Population:	2,447,200
Primary Language:	Arabic, Levantine
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.02 %
Evangelicals:	0.02 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Arab, Levant
Affinity Bloc:	Arab World
Progress Level:

Introduction

The Alawites believe themselves to be the chosen people of God, the only ones to have seen the light in a world of darkness. They have survived as a distinct group despite repeated persecution and the threat of extinction by the Sunni majority and rulers who considered them pagans and heretics. They are especially vulnerable now that Syria is no longer governed by an Alawite head of state. The Alawites believe that all people were stars in the world of light but fell from there due to disobedience. If they are sinful, they will be reborn as Christians until they complete their atonement. Infidels will be reborn as animals. The common Alawite person does not know most of their religious teachings.

Ministry Obstacles

The Alawites believe that to leave their religion marks one as a traitor. That spreads fear of spiritual change.

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray the Lord would use turmoil in the Middle East to point Alawites toward Jesus the Prince of Peace, Immanuel, God with us.
Pray that despite the obstacles, Alawites will be discipled in the ways of Christ and will disciple others.
Pray for Alawites in Syria to have the spiritual hunger it takes to seek and embrace Christ no matter what the cost.