The Arab People: Origins, History, and Cultural Identity

Historical and Biblical Roots

The Arab people originated on the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East and have since expanded across North Africa and beyond. They are primarily defined by their historical, ethnic, cultural and shared language, Arabic. Biblically, Arabs are traditionally regarded as descendants of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar — Sarah’s Egyptian servant. This lineage emerged when Abraham and Sarah attempted to fulfill God’s promise of a son through human means, preceding the miraculous birth of Isaac to Sarah in her old age.

The Bible narrative highlights a lasting tension between the two sons: Ishmael, born according to the flesh, and Isaac, born according to promise (Gen 16:1–15, 21:1–20). God’s covenant, including the promises of land and spiritual blessing, was established through Isaac, not Ishmael. Paul references this distinction in Sarah’s declaration: “The son of the slave woman will not share in the inheritance with the son of the free woman” (Gal 4:30). While this underscores a theological distinction, it does not imply spiritual exclusion — salvation has always been available to all who believe.

Today, the Arab world comprises of some 500 million people. These nations have significant variation in their political systems, economic development, and social norms. The discovery of oil transformed the economies of several Arab nations, while others face economic challenges and political instability, contributing to complex migration patterns around the world.

Faith, Identity, and Modern Context

The majority of Arabs today follow Islam, a religion centered on the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. The foundational declaration of Islamic faith is: "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger." While Islam remains a central aspect of identity for most Arabs, there is considerable diversity in religious practice and interpretation across different regions, with the challenge to gender equality persistent in most contexts. It is important to distinguish between ethnicity and religion: not all Arabs are Muslim (followers of the Islamic religion), and not all Muslims are Arab.

Salvation, according to Christian teaching, is accessible to all people — regardless of ethnic origin — through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ (Jn 3:16). While the Jewish lineage traces back to Isaac and the Arabs to Ishmael, both are offered redemption through grace. God desires that none should perish, but that all come to repentance (2 Pet 3:9), affirming His universal love and redemptive plan.

Christian Witness Among Arabs

Christian communities have existed in the Arab world since the earliest days of the Church.

Contemporary Christian outreach to Arab people requires cultural sensitivity, linguistic competence, and deep respect for Islamic traditions. Building relationships through service, education, and interfaith dialogue often provides more effective witness than direct proselytizing. Medical missions, humanitarian aid, and educational initiatives have created meaningful opportunities for Christian engagement across the Arab world.

For believers seeking to share their faith with Arab friends and neighbors, developing genuine friendships based on mutual respect and understanding is essential. Learning Arabic, appreciating Arab hospitality and family values, and demonstrating Christ-like character through consistent love and integrity can open doors for spiritual conversations in appropriate contexts.

Reflection and Application:

The story of Ishmael and Isaac reminds us that God sees and values all people. How can we, as followers of Christ, honour and build bridges with those from different ethnic, cultural, or religious backgrounds — especially our Arab neighbors?
Just as God's redemptive plan includes both Jews and Arabs, it extends to every nation, tribe, and tongue. How does this truth challenge us to share the gospel with compassion and humility, without prejudice?
Pray for peace in the Middle East, particularly for reconciliation between Jewish and Arab peoples. Intercede for believers in Arab countries who face challenges in their faith, and for opportunities for Christian witness in Islamic contexts.
Ask God to reveal any biases or assumptions you may hold toward others based on ethnicity or religion. Invite Him to shape your heart to reflect His love, justice, and mercy toward all people.

See also: Abraham, anti-Semitism, Ishmael, Islam, Jews, Qur'an, Sarah.