Somali in Egypt

People Name:	Somali
Country:	Egypt
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	23,000
World Population:	28,900,200
Primary Language:	Somali
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Somali
Affinity Bloc:	Horn of Africa Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

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. They also live in several other countries, including Egypt.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Somali society is based on the nuclear family, which consists of a husband, wife, and children. A typical family owns a herd of sheep or goats and a few burden camels. Some may also own a herd of milking camels. The more camels a man has, the greater his prestige. However, this only applies to Somalis who live a rural, especially a nomadic, lifestyle.

Many Somalis go through North African countries like Egypt, trying to make their way to Europe where they hope to find jobs.

What Are Their Beliefs?

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.

What Are Their Needs?

Somalis in Egypt need God's mercy. Egyptian Christians need to reach out to them with faith and love.

Prayer Points

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 signs and wonders among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.