Ossette in Georgia

Introduction / History

The Ossette call themselves "Irons" or "Digorons," and are one of the oldest Caucasian peoples. When the Iranian speaking tribes (Alans, Scythes and Sarmats) settled there, the local population took their language and many cultural features. The Alans and the Ossetians started the formation of the Ossettes. This alliance was destroyed by the Mongol-Tatars, and the Alans were driven from the plains to the mountain ravines, part of them moving to the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, where they still live.

Most Ossettes live in North Ossetia (capitol is Vladikavkaz) and a large number also live in the Republic of Georgia. A smaller number are in South Ossetia (surrounded on three sides by Georgia). North Ossetia and South Ossetia straddle the northern border of Georgia. The Ossetians and Georgians have a long relationship and share some of their customs. There are also a number of this group in Kabardin-Balkaria and the Stavropol Region of Russia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Like other Caucasian peoples, the Ossettes preserve and develop their traditions, customs and holidays. These are remembered in tales, proverbs, and songs depicting the centuries-long history of the Ossette people.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most profess Orthodox Christianity, which came from the Byzantine Empire and Georgia during the sixth and seventh centuries. Islam spread into Ossetia in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, and some are now Sunni Muslims.

What Are Their Needs?

Ossettes need the spiritual hunger it takes to embrace Christ, no matter what the cost.

Prayer Points

Pray that whole families will turn to Christ.
Pray that Christianity will be remembered in their traditions, and the people will be attracted to the gospel.
Pray that the Spirit will multiply the believers.

Text Source:   Joshua Project