Sanjiacun Mosque in Weishan County, Dali
Basic Information
- Chinese Name: 巍山三家村清真寺
- English Name: Sanjiacun Mosque
- Location: Sanjiacun Village, Yongjian Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China
Introduction
Sanjiacun Mosque is located in Sanjiacun Village, Yongjian Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is a significant religious site for the local Hui Muslim community.
Historical Background
- Founding: Sanjiacun Mosque was established during the mid-Ming Dynasty.
- Renovations: Over the centuries, it has undergone multiple renovations and expansions. The prayer hall was rebuilt in 1914, expanded in 1977, and underwent its latest expansion in 1997, completed in 1998.
Structural Features
- Architecture: The mosque complex covers an area of approximately 12 acres. The main prayer hall features a reinforced concrete structure with a fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, spanning two floors and accommodating over 1200 worshippers. Adjacent to the prayer hall is a traditional Chinese-style Xuanli Building.
- Education Facilities: Sanjiacun Mosque houses an Islamic school (阿文学校) and serves as a center for religious education. It has dozens of in-service imams (阿訇).
Community and Cultural Influence
- Community Details: Sanjiacun Village is predominantly inhabited by the Hui ethnic group, belonging to the Gedi clan. The village has deep-rooted religious traditions and has produced numerous scholars and imams over generations.
- Cultural Contributions: The mosque has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Islamic culture and education in the region. It has been recognized as a model mosque at the county and prefectural levels, contributing significantly to local education and community development.
Notable Figures
- Historical Figures: Sanjiacun Village has produced notable scholars and imams throughout its history. Some of the prominent figures include:
- 马宗孟 (Ma Zongmeng): Ming Dynasty scholar.
- 马浩 (Ma Hao) and 马负图 (Ma Futu): Mid-Ming Dynasty scholars.
- 马彦章 (Ma Yanzhang): Qing Dynasty scholar.
- 马奎鳌 (Ma Kui’ao): Qing Dynasty scholar.
- 马秉文 (Ma Bingwen): Scholar proficient in Sino-Arabic culture.
- 马奎元 (Ma Kuiyuan): Military general during the Dali Rebellion.
- 马腾蛟 (Ma Tengjiao): Renowned imam and educator.
- 马孝章 (Ma Xiaozhang): Contemporary scholar and calligrapher.
Local Development and Recognition
- Economic and Educational Contributions: Sanjiacun Mosque has actively supported local economic development initiatives while maintaining its educational endeavors. It has been recognized as a model institution contributing to the region’s cultural and religious heritage.
Visitor Tips
For visitors to Sanjiacun Mosque:
- Guided Tours: Arrange for guided tours to learn about the mosque’s history and cultural significance.
- Respectful Conduct: Visitors are advised to dress modestly and adhere to mosque etiquette. Remove shoes before entering prayer areas and maintain respectful silence during prayers.
- Cultural Experience: Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hui Muslim community in Sanjiacun Village and possibly participate in local events or educational programs.
Getting There
Sanjiacun Mosque is situated in Sanjiacun Village, Yongjian Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. It is accessible via local roads, approximately 20 kilometers north of Dali City and 20 kilometers south of Weishan County Town.
Sanjiacun Village, known for its historical and cultural significance, stands as a testament to the enduring traditions and contributions of the Hui Muslim community in Yunnan Province.
