Beja, Amarar in Sudan
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| People Name: | Beja, Amarar |
| Country: | Sudan |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 785,000 |
| World Population: | 785,000 |
| Primary Language: | Bedawiyet |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Beja |
| Affinity Bloc: | Horn of Africa Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Amarar are a nomadic tribe of the Beja people, indigenous to the mountainous region west of the Red Sea, extending from Suakin northwards and into Eritrea. They are part of the Cushitic-speaking peoples and speak Bedawiyet (Beja), a language with fewer loanwords than other Beja dialects. The Amarar are divided into four major families: Weled Gwilei, Weled Aliab, Weled Kurbab Wagadab, and the Amarar proper of the Ariab district.Historically, the Amarar claim descent from Arab ancestry, specifically from Quraysh blood through Ammar Aqiili, suggesting a blend of indigenous and Arab heritage. They have maintained a strong tribal identity and have historically sided with the British in regional conflicts, unlike other Beja subgroups such as the Hadendowa.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Amarar lead a semi-nomadic pastoral lifestyle, primarily raising camels in the north and cattle in the south. Their society is organized into clans, each with its own pastures and water sources. These resources may be shared with others upon permission, and disputes are settled through traditional Beja law.In recent decades, many Amarar have adopted farming and wage labor to adapt to changing economic conditions. Despite modernization, they retain strong cultural traditions, including cross-cousin marriages and elaborate bridewealth customs involving livestock and goods.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Amarar Beja are 100% Muslim, practicing Sunni Islam. However, their religious observance is often described as folk Islam, blending Islamic practices with traditional beliefs. Their conversion to Islam began around the 15th century, influenced by Arab migration and trade, and was solidified in the 19th century through Sufi revival movements.
What Are Their Needs?
With no known evangelical Christians, there is a need for culturally sensitive gospel engagement. While Bible portions exist in Bedawiyet, there is no complete Bible or New Testament translation available.Literacy and formal education are limited, especially in remote areas. Medical infrastructure is sparse, and traditional medicine is often the only option. Many live in poverty, and sustainable livelihoods are needed to reduce dependence on pastoralism.
Prayer Points
Pray for the translation and distribution of the complete Bible in the Bedawiyet language.Ask God to send workers to share the gospel with the Amarar in culturally appropriate ways.Pray for improved access to education and healthcare in Amarar communities.Intercede for peace and stability in eastern Sudan, where the Amarar live.Pray that traditional barriers to the gospel would be broken down through love and service.