Arab-Chinese Relations and Aspects of Cultural Interaction in Ancient Times: South China as a Model

Abstract

This study examines Arab-Islamic Chinese relations, focusing on South China as a strategic center for civilizational and commercial interaction between the Islamic world and China throughout history. It aims to identify the geographical, economic, social, and political factors that contributed to the settlement of Arab and Muslim communities in the cities of South China and to analyze the administrative and legal systems that provided a secure environment for coexistence and commercial exchange. The study employs inductive, analytical, and descriptive approaches by examining texts found in Arab historical and geographical sources, travel accounts, and Chinese chronicles to explore the nature of Arab-Chinese relations and their role in promoting civilizational interaction. The findings reveal that the prosperity of Arab-Chinese relations was not solely a result of South China's strategic geographical location; it was also linked to the flexibility of administrative systems, the provision of legal guarantees, the recognition of religious diversity, and the granting of a degree of judicial autonomy to Muslim communities. The study further demonstrates the role of southern Chinese ports in stimulating maritime trade along the Maritime Silk Road and transforming it into a space for economic and cultural exchange based on mutual interests and the values of justice and tolerance.