Hajj scroll from China
Chinese scroll with the text of Surat al-Hajj, 425.5 x 30.5 cm, Ink and opaque watercolour on paper, text written in Arabic and Chinese, Khalili Collection. Surah Al-Hajj recited by Sheikh Shuraim.
Stories
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A Tool of Imaginary Pilgrimage
story by Sophie Blower, Matthew Caiger.The year is 1875, and the 19th-century is drawing to a close. Imagine this: you are a Muslim living within the borders of the Qing empire. Rapid modernisation in transport and industrial technologies are changing the world. As a Muslim ruled by the Qing dynasty some, but not all of your community speak Chinese. What sets you apart from other members of Chinese society is your faith, your ummah(religion). Thus Mecca and the Hajj are important to you.