People profile

The Persian world consists of peoples who are ethnically, linguistically, and historically related to the Persian or Iranian people. It is a vast region in Asia, extending from Azerbaijan and Iran in the West through Afghanistan (where 80% speak Dari, a Persian dialect), Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan in the northeast. Iran is the heartland of the Persian world, where an estimated 65-79 percent are Persian.

Persians were never Arabized. Persians are justly proud of their long and ancient history. They have retained their language and rich culture for thousands of years. Many in the Persian world live in challenging conditions and have limited political or religious freedom.

Many say that Persian people are more responsive to the Gospel today than any other ethnic group in the world.

However, in some countries in the region, there are almost no known believers nor any movements to Christ.

Strategic prayer

  • Pray for divine peace and hope amid political unrest, internet blackouts, and poverty.
  • Pray for healing and protection for displaced Persian refugees.
  • Pray for courage for hidden believers and multiplication of the Church.