This is day 16 of 32. Throughout April, we will be posting daily. We invite you to learn about Chinese Muslims and pray with us for God’s glory to be made known among them. If you would like to read other posts in this series, you can find them here.
You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. (Jeremiah 29:13 ESV)
“It may be that some Muslims are following your Jesus, but it will never happen amongst the Dongxiang. We are traditional and will never relinquish Islam and Muhammad.” This was one of the most fervent declarations of Ayinsha,* a young entrepreneur.
On the other hand, here is a dialogue with Khadijah,* “Mary,* are you going to fast next month?” Mary was a bit concerned, but eventually answered, “To tell you the truth, no.” Her Dongxiang friends smiled, and whispered to her, “My neighbors and I don’t fast either.”
Did You Know? The Dongxiang people, with a population of 621,500, are the fourth largest of China’s 10 Muslim people groups. Their origin dates back to the 13th century when China was subdued by the Mongols, and Genghis Khan moved some of his garrisons into northwest China to control the land he had taken. Soldiers intermarried with local women and gradually developed their own distinct ethnic group, now known as the Dongxiang people. The largest concentration of the Dongxiang people is in the rugged, dry mountains of Gansu province.
During Ramadan, the outward appearance is often stronger than the intention of the heart. Religiosity is one of the most significant expressions of identity as a people, perhaps a way to compensate for low self-esteem caused by poverty.
Prayer Requests:
- Pray that the Dongxiang will find their identity in Christ, not in any religion.
- Pray for the breaking of false religiosity. May Dongxiang turn to seek God.
* name changed