Ossette in Ukraine

Introduction / History

The Ossetians 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 Ossetians. The Mongol-Tatars destroyed this alliance, 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 Ossetians 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). The Ossetians and Georgians have a long relationship and share some of their customs. There are also numbers of this group in Kabardin-Balkaria and the Stavropol Region of Russia. North Ossetia and South Ossetia straddle the northern border of Georgia. Smaller numbers are in former Soviet countries like Ukraine.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Like other Caucasian peoples, the Ossetians preserve and develop their traditions, customs and holidays no matter where they live. These are remembered in tales, proverbs, and songs that depict the centuries-long history of the Ossetian people.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Ossetians in Türkiye are primarily integrated into the larger Turkish society. In rural areas like Yozgat, they maintain traditional village lifestyles, with farming and animal husbandry as common occupations. In urban centers such as Istanbul and Ankara, Ossetians work in a variety of professions, including business, trade, and public service.PRGRPHWhile they strive to preserve their language and customs, the Ossetian language is gradually declining, particularly among younger generations due to pressures of assimilation and urban migration. In the remaining Ossetian villages, cultural events, festivals, and music continue to showcase their heritage. However, fewer individuals actively speak Ossetian dialects today.

What Are Their Needs?

Christian materials in Ossetian dialects are limited, making outreach efforts challenging. While some audio gospel messages and Scripture are available in Russian and Georgian, no widely known Ossetian-language Bibles exist in Türkiye.

To effectively

Prayer Points

Pray that entire Ossetian families will turn to Christ in Ukraine.
Pray that the Spirit will multiply Ossetian believers.
Pray that Christianity will be remembered in their traditions and the people will be attracted to the gospel.
Pray for Ossetians to be so in love with Jesus that they will share him with their Ukrainian neighbors.

Text Source:   Joshua Project