In the heart of Xian, China lies the Grand Mosque, a former capital known for its historical significance as “Chang’an” or “Eternal Peace.” Despite being a tourist attraction, the mosque still holds deep cultural and religious roots.
As a non-Muslim visitor, I was greeted warmly at the entrance by a gentleman who, upon hearing my Arabic greeting, welcomed me inside free of charge. This gesture highlighted the rich history of the mosque, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century.
Although visually unique with its blended Islamic and Chinese architectural styles, the mosque’s significance cannot be understated. The first mosque in China was built in Xian, marking the introduction of Islam to the country by Arab traders and diplomats. However, like many religious sites in China, the mosque has been subjected to government-mandated renovations and redesigns.
Today, around 17 million Muslims reside in China, facing varying degrees of control over their religious practices. While the Hui Muslims in Xian maintain a close relationship with the majority Han Chinese, the Uyghurs in Xinjiang are subjected to oppression and cultural genocide.
Despite the challenges faced by Muslims in China, their faith persists, even underground. The struggle for religious freedom and cultural preservation is ongoing, a testament to the resilience of the Muslim community in China.