Imam Chen Keli (1923-1970) : his life and thoughts

Abstract

This study is about Imam Chen Keli (1923-1970), a distinguished Muslim scholar who was martyred in modern China. The material for this work was done through library research and field-work performed both in China and Malaysia. It gives a brief account of Islam in China, followed by a literature review in this field. Imam Chen's life and scholarship are discussed in detail in the socio-political context. One of Imam Chen's masterpieces, Understanding Islam from the Personality of Muhammad, is explored. This study reveals that Imam Chen's life and thought were largely affected by the socio-political climate of the twentieth century China. His thoughts represent his response to the challenges posed by the Communist regime. He sought to reconcile between the universality of Islamic teachings and the particularity of Chinese culture. This thesis shows that Chen Keli was a conspicuous Muslim thinker, writer and translator during a critical period of China's history. The work suggests that he should be accorded the standing of one of the world's Islamic revivalists. It declares that because of his impact he has served as a contemporary exemplar and spiritual father of many Chinese Muslims. This study also serves as a memorial to Imam Chen on his 90th birth anniversary (1923-2013). Some recommendations about further research on Imam Chen are given at the end of the work.