"Hua'r" and Martial Arts of the Hui Ethnic Group

Hua'r: The Folk Song Tradition

Historically, the Hui nationality did not emphasize songs and dances, but in northwestern regions, the Hui people embraced a folk song known as "Hua'r."

Characteristics of Hua'r

• Alternative Names: Also referred to as "youth," "mountain song," or "rustic song."
• Geographical Popularity: Common in Gansu, Ningxia, Qinghai, and Xinjiang, Hua'r has a long-standing tradition believed to have evolved from Yuan songs.
• Melody and Variety: The songs feature loud and smooth melodies, with over 100 variations.
• Content: The lyrics draw inspiration from nature (mountains, grass, woods), history, folk customs, notable figures, and daily life, often created spontaneously. Themes include life, love, political situations, and labor.

Performance Forms

Hua'r is typically performed in three styles:

1. Solo
2. Antiphonal Singing
3. Uniting Singing

These performances usually occur in natural settings, such as mountains and fields. Notably, they are generally forbidden at home and in villages, except during youth weddings.

Martial Arts: A Sacred Tradition

The Hui nationality has a rich tradition of martial arts, which they regard as a "holy behavior."

Types of Martial Arts

The martial arts practiced by the Hui primarily include:

• Chinese Boxing
• Techniques involving various weapons such as knives, swords, sticks, spears, and hammers.

Notable Martial Arts Styles

Some popular styles and techniques include:

• Cha Boxing
• Eight-ji Boxing
• Eight-men Boxing
• Xinyiliuhe Boxing
• Majia Boxing
• Hand Protection Boxing
• Muslim Eight-feng Taiji
• White Ape Tongbi Boxing
• Weapons: Double sword, big sword, Ali sword, expansion and contraction sword, Koran sword, swallow tail sword, fish tail sword, Hezhou stick, Majia spear, Shajia spear, and link hammer.

Historical Significance

The martial arts of the Hui people serve multiple purposes:

• Character Development: Practicing martial arts is seen as a way to cultivate moral character and improve health.
• Self-defense: In historically turbulent social conditions, martial arts provided a means of self-defense and survival.
• Patriotism: The Hui people have used martial arts as a way to express their patriotism, especially during times of national crisis and disaster.

In summary, Hua'r and martial arts are integral to the cultural identity of the Hui ethnic group, reflecting their unique heritage, values, and resilience.