Tatouine
Famous mostly as a fictional planet in the Star Wars movies, Tataouine (pronounced: ta-ta-ween; rhymes with Halloween) has few great claims either currently or from the past. But like most places, its history gives clues as to how to pray it into the fullness of God’s purposes, since there is no place of insignificance in God’s economy.
Tataouine, located in the narrow southern tip of the country, is in the corridor through which all overland invaders entered the country. Semi-nomadic Berbers were the occupants of the region until they were chased out by the Islamic invaders. They fled to the mountains, but there are several Berber villages (Chenini, Douiret, Guermessa, Ghomrassen) around Tataouine. Tataouine, besides being lyrically pleasing enough for Hollywood, is a Berber word meaning “source of water.”
During French occupation, Tatouine hosted one of the harshest French military prisons, which has now been renovated as an army barracks for the local army. The French saying, “being sent to Tataouine,”conjured the image of being punished by being banished to the harsh life of chain-gang work in the desert. Since the region hosts the large El-Borma petroleum fields, it is no longer the lowest rung on the economy ladder.
Although Islamic saints’ tombs are found in all parts of the country, these whitewashed buildings identified by their domed roofs are particularly plentiful in this region. Ceremonies that resemble seances are a regular practice: people come, usually at night, and dance to the beat of a bendir (drum) until they enter a trance. The hope is that they will be healed by the spiritual power of the venerated saint in the tomb. This is a folk Islamic practice that is considered heretical by faithful Muslims, but is still prevalent throughout the nation and leads to much bondage.
Behold, God, my salvation! I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song; yes, He has become my Salvation. Therefore, with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation (Isaiah 12:2-3). Instead of your former shame you shall have a twofold recompense; instead of dishonor and reproach your people shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double what they had forfeited; everlasting joy shall be theirs (Isaiah 61:7).
As we pray for transformation in this part of the country, we cry out for the mercy of the Almighty to bring life to the region. May this source of water become a source of living hope, and draw many to the Lord Jesus. Please use the verses from Isaiah to fuel your prayers.