Hao Hat and Headkerchief of the Hui Ethnic Group

Traditional Male Attire

The men of the Hui nationality typically wear:

• White Chinese-style short gowns on the upper body.
• A black Chinese-style sleeveless jacket over the gown.
• A Hao hat, also known as the "Huis hat" or "worshiping hat," which is a small, round hat without brims.

Historically, the Hao hat was worn primarily during worship, but it has become a common part of everyday attire. This hat is a defining characteristic of Hui clothing and decoration.

Types of Hao Hats

Hao hats are categorized into two main types:

1. Universal Hats: Typically white or black with a flat top.
2. Six-Cornered Hats: Worn by followers of the Zhehelinye official group; in some regions, these may have five or eight corners.

• Materials:
  • White hats are usually made of cotton and worn in spring and summer.
  • Black hats are often made of wool and used in autumn and winter.
• Some men wear a small white hat underneath the black hat to absorb sweat.

Traditional Female Attire

Most Hui women wear a headkerchief to cover their heads and protect their faces. The colors of the headkerchiefs vary by age:

• Old Women: Typically wear white headkerchiefs.
• Middle-aged and Young Women: Generally wear black headkerchiefs.
• Girls: Often wear green headkerchiefs.

Some women may also carry white cloths or towels on their heads.

Cultural Significance

The clothing and decoration of the Hui nationality, similar to other Islamic nationalities like Dongxiang, Sala, and Bao'an, carry distinct religious significance. It is believed that the Prophet Mohammed favored white clothing and encouraged his followers to wear it, as reflected in the saying, "You should often wear white clothes, because white clothes are the purest and most beautiful."

Symbolism of White

The Hui and other Islamic ethnic groups have maintained a preference for white clothing, including hats, headkerchiefs, shirts, and trousers. Even in death, Hui customs dictate that bodies are wrapped in white cloth to symbolize purity in both life and death. Colored cloth or silk is prohibited for the deceased.

Religious Context

The wearing of Hao hats is directly linked to Islamic practices. One of the Five Pillars of Islam requires worshippers to cover their heads during prayers, ensuring that their foreheads and noses touch the ground when they bow. This necessitates the use of brimless hats, such as the small white hats.

Women’s Headkerchiefs

For women, the headkerchief serves a similar purpose. Historically, Arabian women used veils to protect themselves from desert winds and dust. This practice evolved into a religious custom, reinforced by teachings in the Quran that instruct female followers to dress modestly and cover their bodies.

Patterns and Designs

The clothing patterns of the Hui and other Islamic nationalities rarely feature figures or animals, focusing instead on floral designs and Arabic script. This artistic choice aligns with Islamic prohibitions against idolatry and the worship of images.

In summary, the Hao hat and headkerchief of the Hui ethnic group not only serve practical purposes but also embody rich cultural and religious significance, reflecting the values and traditions of the Hui community.