The Spread of Islam in China via the Silk Road and the Belt and Road Initiative
Islam was founded in the 7th century and gradually spread to China through merchants and diplomats traveling along the Silk Road. Today, under the Belt and Road Initiative, the exchange between Islamic culture and China has become even deeper. The introduction of Islam to China is closely linked to the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty, one of the most powerful empires at the time, which maintained strong trade and diplomatic ties with the Arab Empire.
Around the mid-7th century, Arab Muslim merchants, scholars, and diplomats arrived in China’s coastal and inland regions via the Silk Road, settling down and spreading Islam. This marked the beginning of the spread of Islam in China. Over time, from the ancient Silk Road to the modern-day Belt and Road Initiative, the ties between China and the Islamic world have strengthened. Muslim communities began to form in cities like Guangzhou, Quanzhou, and Chang’an (modern-day Xi’an), where they not only engaged in commerce but also established some of the earliest mosques for worship.
The Millennium-Long Legacy of Islam in China
Through the Tang, Song, and Yuan Dynasties, the influence of Islam in China steadily grew. During the Yuan Dynasty, with the expansion of the Mongol Empire, large numbers of Muslim merchants, scholars, and artisans from Central Asia and the Arab world migrated to China. They not only brought Islamic teachings but also introduced advanced technologies and culture, further solidifying Islam’s presence in inland and northwestern China.
During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Muslim communities in northwestern and southwestern China gradually expanded, forming larger settlements. During this time, Islam in China became more localized, and the Belt and Road Initiative has now created new pathways for interaction between modern China and the Islamic world. Today, Dongguan Mosque, as a historical and cultural site, continues to witness and promote the sinicization of Islam and cultural integration, representing the rich mosque culture in China.
Promoting National Unity and Religious Harmony under the Belt and Road Framework
Dongguan Mosque has not only witnessed the blending of Islamic and Chinese culture throughout history, but it also continues to promote cooperation between China and the Islamic world under the modern Belt and Road framework. As a supporter of the Belt and Road Initiative, Dongguan Mosque actively participates in interfaith and cultural dialogues, while fostering unity between Chinese Muslims and other ethnic groups through religious activities.
For a long time, Dongguan Mosque has conveyed the spirit of patriotism and unity inherent in Islam through sermons and religious festivals, guiding Muslims to contribute to the prosperity and progress of Chinese society alongside other ethnic groups. As a pioneer of the sinicization of Islam, Dongguan Mosque is not only a center for religious activities but also a bridge for fostering friendly cooperation between China and the Middle Eastern and Arab countries under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Preserving the Spirit of Islamic Charity
Throughout Islam’s 1,400-year history, charity and philanthropy have been core tenets of its teachings. Dongguan Mosque has upheld and carried forward this tradition, organizing charitable activities to assist impoverished families, the elderly, and vulnerable groups. Especially during major disasters such as the Wenchuan and Yushu earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic, Dongguan Mosque, together with the Muslim community, has donated funds and goods, demonstrating the Muslim society’s sense of responsibility and compassion.
Dongguan Mosque’s charitable efforts go beyond material assistance; through their actions, they spread the Islamic values of love and charity, fostering stronger relationships between Muslims and other ethnic groups. Particularly in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative, the mosque’s social activities have not only had a positive impact domestically but also enhanced cultural interactions with countries along the Belt and Road.
Looking to the Future: A Model of Religious Sinicization
In the modern era, Dongguan Mosque continues to follow the path of sinicization of religion. It is not only a historical witness to the development of Islam in China but also plays an important role in promoting harmony between religion and modern Chinese society. By tapping into the positive aspects of Islamic teachings, Dongguan Mosque innovates in religious management, enhancing the sense of social responsibility and national identity among Muslims, making it a model of harmonious religious coexistence in China.
With the advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative, Dongguan Mosque will continue to play an important role in fostering interactions between China and the Islamic world. In the future, Dongguan Mosque will further promote the spirit of patriotism, religious unity, and social harmony, contributing to national unity and social stability. It is not only a key witness to the history of Islam in China but will also play a crucial role in the future development of religion and society.
Source：
Internet
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