Generally, within seven days of a birth, the imam of a local mosque will give a Hui child an Islamic name from the Quran. Some names, such as Miriam, Mary, Jacob, or David, would sound quite appropriate to a Christian as well. This scriptural name is considered the person’s true name, even though the child will also be given a Chinese name before starting school. It is customary, as well, for Muslims to sacrifice a sheep when a child is born, for God’s protection over the new life. When male children are circumcised, usually after five years of age, Hui families will celebrate with a feast. These childhood rituals are not practiced among the Chinese majority, and they reinforce the cultural identity of the Hui, further separating them from non-Muslim Chinese.
Imagine that today you have the opportunity to visit a Hui family in a rural village and share a meal with them. The grandmother has prepared a traditional dish of steamed battered chicken. As the family sits around the table, and starts to dig in, you pray for them, blessing in Jesus’ name.
As you watch this video, remember that Jesus said, “let the little children come to me,” as he placed his hands on them and blessed them, “for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” They are precious in His sight! Pray that they would someday hear about Jesus, who came to bring light and salvation to the world.
May Hui people, young and old, believe in the Lord Jesus, and become children of God, having a place at his table. May goodness and mercy follow them all the days of their lives, upon meeting the Good Shepherd.
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. (John 1:12)
Please pray this week for Hui children:
- That Hui children in poor rural areas, would receive proper nutrition, decent healthcare, and education
- That they would be treated with love and affection by their parents and grandparents
- That they would have an opportunity to hear the true stories of God, Adam and Eve, Abraham, Sarah and Isaac, David, John the Baptist, and Jesus
- For these children to study well, go to college, and have an opportunity to meet a Christian witness
- That God would bring Hui children to know Jesus, and have a saving faith in Him
You can see more of this Hui family in their everyday life, by watching the videos in the following playlist: Impressions of a Hui Family
* The Know Thy Hui Neighbor article by Julie Ma was a helpful resource for this post. Read more of Julie’s articles about the Hui at ChinaSource.org.