Uyghur Cosmos

Uyghurs have a variety of beliefs. As for religious beliefs, they have believed in Shamanism, Manicheam, Jing, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism. Currently, most believe in and follow the islam religion. Most converted during the 11th century. Their religion influences their life greatly. There are festivals to celebrate that are related to the islam religion. These festivals include the Corban Festival, the Kaizhai Festival, and the Almsgiving festival.
When it comes to eating, Uyghurs eat all the rice they are served at every meal. If they do not it is considered insulting. Everyone must wash their hands before eating. Splashing your hands in water is unacceptable and it signifies discourtesy. The younger people must sit with the senior members of they family. Pancakes or as they call it, nang, cannot be eaten if it is upside down. Last, but not least, modest clothing is a must while eating.
As for marriage, when a woman is proposed to, after telling the family the next step is a marriage interview. A marriage interview is a way of making the relationship public and legitimate. It is also used to make sure that the groom knows everything their is to know about his future wife.
A few other beliefs are that exit doors should not face west. While sleeping, you should sleep on your back with your head facing east. When meeting, males shake hands and touch their chest with both hands. Woman also must salute.When receiving a gift it is important to use both hands or it is said to be very disrespectful.
After a death Quranic prayers are chanted.The body is then cleansed. Once the body is cleansed, it is wrapped up into white gauze.