Bahrain

RELIGION

Bahrain has a large migrant population – only 45 percent of residents are citizens. It is more religiously diverse than other Gulf states; Muslims make up 70 percent of the total population, and 14.5 percent of all residents are Christian. The country is also home to Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Baha’is, and Jews.

It is estimated that 99 percent of citizens are Muslims and that the majority are Shia. Shia Muslims report facing discrimination in employment and other opportunities. Muslims who wish to change their religion face societal pressure not to do so.

HISTORY

This small, oil-rich group of islands was once home to the ancient, illustrious Dilmun empire. Bahrain was briefly invaded by the Portuguese in the 15th century and was later ruled by the Persians. In 1820, the Al-Khalifa tribe from Kuwait seized control following several power struggles.

Bahrain later became a British protectorate, but experienced much unrest and violence as citizens protested British rule. Iran, which also laid claim to the territory, and Britain continued to dispute its sovereignty until 1970, when it was recognised as an independent nation.

SOCIAL ISSUES

The Shia-majority nation is ruled by a Sunni king, and the country endures clashes between its Sunni and Shia Muslim populations. Its human rights record has also come under close scrutiny.

LANGUAGES SPOKEN

Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu

PRAYER POINTS

• Pray for political reform that will result in full equality for all Bahrain’s citizens.
• Pray for peaceful relations between different communities and for an end to unrest in the country.
• Pray that new believers who endure opposition and pressure will know God’s peace and love throughout the trials they face.