Sanglechi in Tajikistan

Introduction / History

The Sanglechi people are very proud of their unique culture and language. The vast majority live in one city: Ishkashim. This is in high elevation at the southern tip of Tajikistan on the Afghanistan border on the west end of the Wakhan Valley. They also live in Afghanistan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Sanglechi people are hospitable to foreigners and most speak Russian or Tajik.
Their lives are largely agrarian, although some hold urban jobs. Many of the men seek employment in Russia. The women dress very modestly with long dresses and head scarves. They live in clay-block houses and drink much tea. For breakfast they may have bread in a bowl of tea-milk with butter.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their spiritual lives can best be described as Islam mixed with Zoroastrianism and traditional beliefs. They claim all their beliefs are part of Muslim culture. Secular humanism affects some of them.

What Are Their Needs?

Their greatest need is for God-honoring messengers to bring them the gospel. As it stands, they have few if any chances to hear there is a savior.

Prayer Points

Pray for Christ-centered fellowships among the Sanglechi people of Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
Pray for the people to come to an understanding of the gospel and embrace the only savior.
Pray for Sanglechi elders and family leaders to have dreams and visions of the risen Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project