9 Facts You Should Know About Christians in Jordan
The Fellowship | July 26, 2018
We at The Fellowship continue our efforts to support Christians in Jordan who have fled bitter persecution by Islamist terrorists. Want to know more about this Arab state that shares a border with Israel? Here are nine facts that will help you better understand Jordan and the situation for Christians there.
About the Christian lives in Jordan
1. Islam is the official religion in Jordan
About 93% of Jordanians are Muslim. While Christians represent 6% of the population and 1% identify as another religion.
2. Jordan is one of the first Arab states to recognize Israel
Jordan is one of four Arab states that officially recognizes and has full diplomatic relations with Israel. The others include Egypt, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain.
3. Jordan is about four times the size of Israel
In terms of landmass, Jordan is about four times larger than Israel. Although, the population of Jordan is only 2 million greater than the Jewish state (approximately 10 million vs. 8 million, respectively).
4. Many Jordanian Christians can trace their faith back to the times of Jesus
Many Arab Christian communities in the Middle East, including in Jordan, can trace their faith back to the times of Jesus, and still speak and pray in ancient Syriac and Aramaic languages.
5. There’s more religious freedom in Jordan compared to other Arab states
Hundreds of thousands of Christians fleeing radical Islamist persecution in neighboring Iraq and Syria have come to Jordan seeking refuge. Nearly 1 out of every 10 people in Jordan is a refugee from Syria or Iraq.
6. Jordanian Christian lives are still full of challenges
Despite having more freedom, Christians in Jordan still face oppression. Iraqi Christian refugees cannot legally work in Jordan. The law lacks clarity, barring most refugees from working. Many are employed in black market positions due to a lack of work permits or residency.
7. Converted Christians in Jordan face persecution
In Jordan, former Muslims who have converted to Christianity report abuse and discrimination for practicing their faith.
8. Many Jordanian Christians hide their faith
Christians have been interrogated about their religious beliefs by public officials. Some worship in secret to avoid scrutiny.
9. Jordan offers security for Christians during holidays
Jordanian security forces devote extra resources to protect Christian neighborhoods and churches during holidays and special events.
Join The Fellowship in offering protection, security, and basic necessities to persecuted Christians in the Middle East. Learn how you can help us Rescue the Persecuted today.