Altai-Kizhi in Russia
Photo Source:
Z. U. - Flickr
Creative Commons
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Map Source:
People Group location: IMB. Map geography: ESRI / GMI. Map design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Altai-Kizhi |
| Country: | Russia |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 83,000 |
| World Population: | 83,600 |
| Primary Language: | Altai, Southern |
| Primary Religion: | Ethnic Religions |
| Christian Adherents: | 2.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.33 % |
| Scripture: | New Testament |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Ural-Siberian |
| Affinity Bloc: | Turkic Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Presently a number of different peoples are united as "Altaics", or "Oirots". For the most part, these peoples have had different occupations, modes of life, and ethnic origins, which is why the Altai district of the Mountain Altai autonomous region is linguistically and ethnically so diverse. There is a great difference between the North and South Altaics in their customs and clothing.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Altai is a very old center for the art of metal working. Since ancient times the North Altaics have been remarkable for their skill in mining and smelting iron and fashioning harnesses, helmets, spears, hunting gear, sabers and many other things. Throughout the centuries the Altaics have tenaciously held on to several elements of Old Turkic culture and the accompanying way of life.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Many Old Turkic shamanistic customs have remained, including the rite of sacrificing animals.
What Are Their Needs?
They need better living conditions, especially in regard to schools and job opportunities.
Prayer Points
Pray for improved living conditions, for good schools and for employment opportunities. Pray the few followers of Jesus Christ among the Altai will be accurately instructed in the truths of scripture and will place their faith fully in the finished work of Christ. Pray for Altai disciples to make more disciples.