New Sect (Islam in China)
Definition
The “New Sect” refers to an eighteenth-century Chinese revivalist Muslim group led by Ma Mingxin, predominantly located in Gansu Province. This sect was focused on religious reform that emphasized distinctive Muslim practices and rejected local customs compromised with non-Islamic elements. Influenced by the Naqshbandi tariqah, it led to significant internal divisions and conflicts within the Muslim community in China.
Etymology
- Arabic: الفرقة الجديدة (al-Firqah al-Jadīdah)
- Turkish: Yeni Mezhep
Background and Beliefs
The New Sect’s formation was rooted in the quest for purity within Islamic practice. Ma Mingxin, having been influenced by the reformist teachings of the Naqshbandi Sufi order, began to call for the rejection of syncretic practices and a return to fundamental Islamic principles. This included a strong emphasis on Shariah law and a critical stance toward any practices viewed as innovation (bid'ah).
Historical Context
- Formation and Influence: The New Sect emerged as a reaction against the prevailing customs and rituals which it deemed as corrupted by local Chinese traditions. This return to a perceived original form of Islam was modeled similar to other Islamic reform movements worldwide.
- Conflict with Old Sect: Their strong reformist stance led to conflict with the established “Old Sect”, resulting in significant clashes and revolts in 1781 and 1783.
- Proscription and Rebellion: Although the group was proscribed after 1783, it remained active covertly. They were instrumental in a major rebellion led by Ma Hualong in 1862. This rebellion aimed at overthrowing Qing Dynasty control and establishing Islamic rule in the region. The violent suppression of this revolt in 1873 led to the fall of Muslim control over several cities in Gansu Province.
Legacy and Influence
The New Sect’s revolt and subsequent suppression marked a critical period in Chinese Islamic history. It represented a dynamic assertion of religious identity which sought to blend reformist zeal with political activism. The rebellion both physically and ideologically challenged the existing norms, leaving a lasting impact on Sino-Muslim relations and local Islamic practices.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Chiang, Wai-Keung Felix. _Muslims in China: The Integration of Xinjiang’s Muslims into Amalgamative States and the Inner Alashan Boutk Altai Uyghur Buddhists Commandýmpritud đối æt mongolicình kếtorogi _
- Lipman, Jonathan N. Islamic China: An Introduction
- Israeli, Raphael. Muslim Chinese: Ethnic Nationalism in the People’s Republic
Key Takeaways
- The New Sect played a significant role in Chinese Islamic history as a revivalist group calling for religious purity.
- It was primarily against syncretic practices, which led to conflicts within the Muslim community and with state authorities.
- The revolts they participated in were part of broader efforts to assert Muslim autonomy and were met with severe crackdowns.
- Their history highlights the complexities of Muslim identity in a non-Muslim majority context.
Conclusion
The New Sect’s history is illustrative of the broader trends in Islamic reformist movements, emphasizing a return to scriptural fundamentals while navigating local cultural contexts. Despite facing suppression, their legacy offers valuable insights into the dynamic between religion, identity, and politics within Chinese Muslim communities.
By exploring the New Sect’s background, conflicts, and legacy, one gains a nuanced understanding of the challenges and transformations experienced by Muslims in historical and cultural contexts distinct from those of the broader Islamic world.
