The Somali first appeared in the Horn of Africa around 1200 and began expanding westward and southward about 150 years later. They converted to Islam around 1550, under the influence of Arab traders who had settled along the coast of present-day Somalia.
Somalis share a common language, adhere to a single faith, and share a cultural heritage that is an integral part of their nomadic lifestyle. There are four major Somali clan groups. The two largest are the Somaal and the Sab. The Somaal are primarily nomadic shepherds. The Sab usually settle in communities and live as farmers or craftsmen.
Several million Somalis now live scattered across eight countries in the northeastern part of Africa, commonly referred to as the "Horn of Africa," and in the Middle East, although their base is primarily in Somalia. Many Somalis go through North African countries, trying to make their way to Europe where they hope to find jobs. In Europe, they have settled in Sweden, Norway, Finland, the U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria.
Somali society is based on the nuclear family, which consists of a husband, wife, and children. Somali culture revolves around their clans. For that reason, Somalis have a strong tendency to re-settle with members of their clans when they reach Europe. Somalis are used to an informal system of sending funds to members of their clans in Somalia.
In the European countries, they need to learn a new language and culture to function. Finding affordable housing and reliable employment are challenges.
Although Somali people are Sunni, the largest branch of Islam, numerous beliefs and traditions have been intermingled with their Islamic practices. The standard Islamic prayers are usually observed; however, Somali women have never worn the required veils. Somalis frequently turn to the wadaad (a religious expert) for blessings, charms and advice in worldly matters. The Somali people are Sunni, the largest branch of Islam. They try to obey the teachings of the Koran and the prophet Muhammad. They believe that by following the Five Pillars of Islam that they will attain heaven when they die. However, Allah, the supreme God of the universe, determines who enters paradise. Sunnis pray five times a day facing Mecca. They fast the month of Ramadan. They attend mosque services on Friday. If a Muslim has the means, he or she will make a pilgrimage to Mecca once in his or her lifetime. Muslims are also prohibited from drinking alcohol, eating pork, lying and stealing. The two main holidays for Sunni Muslims are Eid al Fitr, the breaking of the monthly fast and Eid al Adha, the celebration of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son to Allah.
Somalis in Egypt need God's mercy. Christians need to reach out to them with faith and love.
Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.
Pray for the authority of Christ to bind hindering spiritual forces to lead Somalis from darkness to light.
Pray for Somali elders and family leaders to have dreams of the risen and victorious Christ, opening them to look to Jesus for spiritual answers.
Scripture Prayers for the Somali in Switzerland.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somali_diaspora
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somali_people
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
