HUI CHINESE Meaning and
Definition
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Hui Chinese refers to an ethnic group residing primarily in China, with a smaller population living in other parts of the world. The term "Hui" originates from the Arabic word "Huihui," which was used to describe Muslims during the time of the Silk Road.
The Hui Chinese identify themselves as followers of Islam and are recognized as one of the ten officially recognized ethnic minority groups in China. They are predominantly located in the northwest and central regions of China, particularly in the provinces of Ningxia, Gansu, Henan, and Shaanxi, but can also be found in various urban areas throughout the country.
The Hui Chinese are distinguishable by their adherence to Islamic customs, including dietary laws, prayer rituals, and the observance of Islamic holidays. However, they are ethnically and culturally Han Chinese, with their language being the Mandarin dialect spoken in their respective regions.
Their history can be traced back to the time of the Mongol Empire, where many Mongols converted to Islam and intermarried with the local population. As a result, the Hui Chinese have inherited a unique blend of Mongolian, Chinese, and Central Asian cultural influences.
The Hui Chinese have made significant contributions to various fields, including arts, literature, commerce, and medicine. They have also played an important role in facilitating cultural and economic exchanges between China and the Islamic world.
Although the Hui Chinese face challenges in preserving their cultural heritage and religious practices in an increasingly secular society, the Chinese government has implemented policies to protect their rights and promote their integration into broader Chinese society.
Etymology of HUI CHINESE
The term "Hui" in the context of Chinese ethnicity refers to a distinct ethnic group within China. The word "Hui" itself comes from the Mandarin Chinese pronunciation of the Arabic word "Huihui".
"Huihui" was a term used by Arabs and Persians to refer to people from China during the Middle Ages. It is believed to have originated from the Chinese word "Huihe" (回纥), which referred to the Uyghur ethnic group in Xinjiang, China. Over time, the term "Huihui" was used more broadly to refer to all Chinese Muslims, regardless of their particular ethnic background.
During the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), the Mongols ruled China and brought Islam to the country.
