Origin

The ancestors of the Dongxiang people are believed to have close ties with the Mongolian tribes. During the Yuan Dynasty, a large number of Mongolian soldiers and their families were stationed in the present - day Dongxiang area. Over time, through intermarriage with the local Han, Hui, and Tibetan people, and long - term cultural integration, they gradually formed the Dongxiang ethnic group with their own unique characteristics.

Development

Historically, the Dongxiang people mainly engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. In the fertile valleys and plains, they cultivated crops such as wheat, barley, and corn. Animal husbandry, especially the raising of sheep, cattle, and horses, played an important supplementary role in their economic life. The Dongxiang society had a relatively close - knit community structure, centered around the mosque and the village. Islamic teachings and traditions had a profound impact on social norms, moral values, and daily life.

Modern Times

In modern times, with the development of China's economy and the implementation of various policies to promote ethnic minority areas, the Dongxiang people have experienced significant changes. The government has invested in infrastructure construction, improving roads, electricity, and water supply in Dongxiang - inhabited areas. Education has been greatly improved, with more Dongxiang children having access to schooling and a higher literacy rate being achieved. At the same time, efforts have been made to preserve and promote Dongxiang culture, including language, traditional festivals, and handicrafts.

Quantity

As of the 7th National Population Census in 2020, the Dongxiang population in China is approximately 774,947, making them one of the medium - sized ethnic minorities in the country.

Distribution

The majority of the Dongxiang people live in Dongxiang Autonomous County in Gansu Province. This area is characterized by a combination of loess plateaus and river valleys, providing suitable conditions for agriculture and animal husbandry. A small number of Dongxiang people have migrated to other parts of China for work, study, or other reasons, contributing to cultural exchange and integration with other ethnic groups.

Traditionally, the Dongxiang economy was based on a combination of agriculture and animal husbandry. They built terraced fields on the hillsides to make full use of the land resources for growing crops. In addition to staple crops, they also cultivated vegetables and fruits. Animal husbandry was an important part of their livelihood, and the products such as meat, milk, and wool were used for daily consumption and trade. Handicrafts, such as carpet - making and leather - processing, also had a long history and were well - known for their high quality.

In modern times, the Dongxiang economy has diversified. Agriculture remains an important sector, but there has been an increase in the cultivation of cash crops such as sunflowers, rapeseed, and medicinal herbs. Animal husbandry has also been modernized, with improved breeding techniques and the development of animal product processing industries. The tourism industry in the Dongxiang area has gradually developed, attracting tourists with its unique ethnic culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and traditional festivals. Many Dongxiang people are involved in the tourism industry, offering services such as homestays, guiding, and cultural performances.

Language and Script

The Dongxiang language belongs to the Mongolic branch of the Altaic language family. It has several dialects. In the past, the Dongxiang people mainly used the Arabic script to write their language for religious purposes, such as reciting the Quran and writing religious texts. In modern times, the Chinese characters are commonly used for writing in daily life, education, and official documents. However, efforts are being made to preserve and promote the use of the Dongxiang language through cultural activities, research, and the development of educational materials.

Religious Beliefs

Islam is the core of Dongxiang culture. The Dongxiang people strictly follow the teachings of Sunni Islam, which has a profound impact on all aspects of their lives. Mosques are the central places for religious activities, where Muslims gather for daily prayers, Friday sermons, and religious festivals. Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of piety, charity, and social justice, and these values are deeply ingrained in the Dongxiang society. Religious leaders play an important role in guiding the spiritual life of the people and maintaining social order.

Clothing

Traditional Dongxiang clothing has distinct Islamic and ethnic characteristics. Men usually wear white or black skullcaps, long - sleeved robes, and loose trousers. In winter, they may wear sheepskin coats for warmth. Women's clothing is more colorful and elaborate. They wear long - sleeved blouses with colorful embroidery, long skirts, and headscarves. The headscarves are often decorated with patterns and tassels, and they cover the hair and neck as a sign of modesty according to Islamic customs. In some special occasions, women may also wear jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Literature

Dongxiang literature has a rich oral tradition, including folk tales, epics, proverbs, and religious texts. Folk tales are passed down through generations by storytellers, often featuring moral lessons and cultural values. Epics are long narrative poems that recount the heroic deeds of ancestors or legendary figures, reflecting the history and spirit of the Dongxiang people. Proverbs are an important part of Dongxiang wisdom, providing concise and insightful expressions of life experiences and social norms. Religious texts, such as the interpretations of the Quran and the biographies of Islamic saints, are also an important part of Dongxiang literature, guiding the religious beliefs and moral behavior of the people.

Transportation

In the past, due to the relatively underdeveloped terrain of their habitats, the Dongxiang people mainly relied on walking and horses or mules for transportation. In some areas, they also used donkeys to carry goods. In modern times, with the development of infrastructure, motorcycles, cars, and buses have become common means of transportation in Dongxiang - inhabited areas. However, in some remote villages, walking and traditional animal - drawn vehicles are still important ways of getting around, especially for accessing remote fields and forests.

Medicine

Traditional Dongxiang medicine has a long history and is influenced by both Islamic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine. Dongxiang healers have extensive knowledge of local herbs and plants and use them to treat a wide range of diseases. They also pay attention to the balance of the body's energy and the harmony between the body and the environment. In recent years, with the improvement of medical conditions in Dongxiang - inhabited areas, traditional Dongxiang medicine has been integrated with modern medical systems to provide more comprehensive medical services for the people.

Calendar

The Dongxiang people mainly follow the Islamic lunar calendar for religious activities and festivals. The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle and is used to determine the dates of important religious events such as Ramadan, Eid al - Fitr, and Eid al - Adha. At the same time, they also use the solar calendar for daily life and agricultural activities, as it is more closely related to the natural seasons and agricultural cycles.

Music

Dongxiang music is characterized by its unique melodies and rhythms, often reflecting religious themes and daily life. Folk songs are an important form of Dongxiang music, covering topics such as love, labor, and nature. Traditional Dongxiang musical instruments include the "sanaigen" (a three - stringed plucked instrument), "flute," and various types of drums. During religious festivals and social gatherings, Dongxiang people gather together to sing and play music, creating a solemn and joyful atmosphere.

Dance

Dongxiang dance is often performed during religious festivals and celebrations. The dances are usually energetic and expressive, with movements that are closely related to religious rituals and daily life. For example, the "Sala Dance" is a traditional Dongxiang dance performed during Eid al - Fitr and other important festivals. Dancers wear traditional clothing and perform in a group, expressing their joy and gratitude to Allah.

Architecture

In the past, the Dongxiang people lived in traditional courtyard houses, which were usually built with adobe bricks or stones. The houses were arranged around a central courtyard, providing a private and secure living space for the family. The main rooms were used for living, sleeping, and receiving guests, while the side rooms were used for storage and kitchen facilities. The roofs were usually flat, which could be used for drying crops and other activities. In modern times, with the improvement of living standards, many Dongxiang people have moved into brick - and - concrete houses, but some traditional architectural elements are still preserved in some villages as a symbol of cultural heritage.

Arts and Crafts

Dongxiang arts and crafts are renowned for their fine workmanship and unique designs. Traditional Dongxiang crafts include carpet - making, leather - processing, and embroidery. Dongxiang carpets are known for their bright colors, intricate patterns, and high - quality wool. They are not only used for daily use but also as valuable handicrafts for collection and decoration. Leather - processing products include saddles, bags, and shoes, which are made from high - quality animal hides and are durable and practical. Embroidery is often used to decorate clothing, headscarves, and household items, adding a touch of beauty and elegance.

Etiquette

Dongxiang etiquette is based on Islamic teachings and traditional customs, emphasizing hospitality, respect, and politeness. When guests arrive at a Dongxiang home, they are usually greeted warmly with a handshake and a smile. The host will offer tea or dates to the guests, and it is customary to accept these offerings as a sign of respect. During meals, guests are often served the best food, and it is polite to praise the host's hospitality. The Dongxiang people also place great importance on greetings, and young people should show proper respect to elders by using formal titles and polite language.

Marriage Customs

Dongxiang marriage customs are strictly regulated by Islamic law and traditional customs. Marriages are usually arranged by the families of the bride and groom, with the consent of both parties. The engagement ceremony is an important step, during which the groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, including jewelry, clothing, and livestock. The wedding ceremony is a grand event that follows Islamic rituals. The bride and groom sign the marriage contract in the presence of an imam and witnesses. After the ceremony, there is a wedding feast where family and friends gather to celebrate, with music, dancing, and delicious food.

Festivals

The Dongxiang people celebrate many important Islamic festivals throughout the year. Ramadan is a month of fasting, during which Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other worldly pleasures from dawn to dusk. Eid al - Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a time for celebration, feasting, and giving thanks to Allah. Eid al - Adha is another important festival, which commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. During this festival, Muslims sacrifice animals and distribute the meat to the poor and needy. In addition to Islamic festivals, the Dongxiang people also celebrate some traditional Chinese festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Mid - Autumn Festival, but with some unique Dongxiang customs and traditions.

Diet

Dongxiang cuisine is influenced by Islamic dietary laws, which prohibit the consumption of pork and require the slaughter of animals to be carried out in a specific way. Staple foods include wheat, barley, and corn, which are used to make various types of bread, noodles, and porridge. Common dishes include lamb stew, hand - pulled noodles, and various types of pastries. The Dongxiang people have a tradition of using local spices and herbs to flavor their food, giving it a unique taste. They also like to drink tea, especially green tea, which is often served with dates or nuts during social gatherings.

Funeral Customs

Dongxiang funeral customs are based on Islamic teachings. When a person dies, the family will wash the body and dress it in clean white clothes. The body is then placed in a coffin and buried in a Muslim cemetery as soon as possible. An imam will perform the funeral prayer and guide the soul of the deceased to the afterlife. Family and friends will gather to pay their respects and offer condolences. During the mourning period, relatives and friends will continue to offer support to the bereaved family, and special prayers are held for the deceased on the third, seventh, and fortieth days after the funeral.