Imagine having only part of the Bible available in your own language.  This has been the case for over eleven million Kazakhs—until now!  The first Kazakh translation of the entire Bible has been completed.  The Bible League, SEND International and a local Kazakh organization are partnering to print and distribute the bibles. 

Previously, only Russian-language bibles or partial Kazakh bibles were available.  Although many Kazakhs speak Russian, it is not their primary language.  Kazakh evangelists often preach in Kazakh and if they preach on a passage that isn't translated, they must either read the scriptures in Russian or translate the passage on the spot.  This can lead to error as personal theological preferences influence the rendering of the text. 

Many Kazakhs are nominal Muslims and Islam permeates their identity, heritage, and culture.  But there is an increasing openness to the gospel and many Kazakhs are actively seeking God.

The completed translation means that Kazakh people will have the opportunity to not only hear, but read the Word of God for themselves.  The availability of the scriptures in the heart language of the Kazakh people may open a new level of response to the gospel.

Through generous gifts and faithful prayers, over 30,000 Bibles were printed and began to be distributed in the fall of 2012. Please pray that God would use these Bibles to draw many Kazakhs to Himself.