Binju Mosque in Binchuan County, Dali

Binju Mosque, located in Binju Township, Binchuan County, Yunnan Province, was originally constructed during the Qing Dynasty, specifically in the Jiaqing period. It covers an area of 6 acres, featuring a classical Chinese architectural style for its main hall.

Historical Background

• Founding: Established during the Qing Dynasty, in the Jiaqing period.
• Architectural Style: The main hall adheres to classical Chinese architectural principles, covering 6 acres. It underwent reconstruction in 1933 and is adorned with a prominent gold-lettered Arabic inscription plaque.

Structure and Facilities

• Main Hall: Consists of three prayer halls, with one hall hosting the gold-lettered Arabic inscription plaque.
• Decorations: Outside the hall’s entrance hangs a black lacquered wooden plaque inscribed with “万有真源” (Source of All Things). Wooden board couplets read: “经一经精教本意真罗万象，不二不杂道包天地贯三才” (Through the essence of one scripture, truth encompasses all things; unaltered and pure, it embraces heaven, earth, and the universe).
• External Features: A stone stele on the north wall bears the inscription “古清真” (Ancient Mosque), and the Xuanli Pavilion displays a plaque reading “天经焕彩” (Heavenly Scripture Shines with Brilliance).

Community and Cultural Significance

• Community: Binju Mosque serves 40 households totaling 167 people, all belonging to the Hui ethnic group, affiliated with the Gedimu sect. The mosque is led by three imams and five educators, housing three classic Arabic texts.

Location and Accessibility

• Location: Binju Township, Binchuan County, Yunnan Province.

Binju Mosque stands as a testament to historical preservation and cultural heritage, embodying the architectural and spiritual legacy of the Hui Muslim community in Yunnan Province.