Meshrep: A Rich Cultural Tradition of the Uyghur People and Thirty Men Meshrep

Oq Ya

  

Meshrep is one of the traditional customs of the Uyghur people, and it has a long history deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Familiar customs and social ethics facilitate the organisation and management of Meshrep, seamlessly integrating morality, public discipline, art, and education. Meshrep is recognised as the "school of art" and "cradle of manners" for the Uyghur people.

Local Characteristics and Variations

Meshrep exhibits diverse local characteristics depending on regional styles. Various types and names of Meshrep include:

• Thirty Men Meshrep: Prominent among the Ili Uyghurs.
• Dolan Meshrep: Notable among the Dolan Uyghurs.
• Other Variants include Dolan, Blue (Grass), and Qeyit.

These local Meshreps are distinguished by their extensive scope, rich content, and well-organised organisation.

Etymology and Meaning

The term "Meshrep" is derived from the Arabic word meaning:

1. Personality, character, habit, nature.
2. A place to drink.

In the modern Uyghur language, Meshrep refers to gatherings where people sing, dance, party, and enjoy themselves. It also signifies human work and activity.

Musical and Cultural Significance

Meshrep holds a significant place in the Uyghur musical tradition, especially in the Twelve Muqam, a collection of classical Uyghur music.

• Meshrep (Tushurum): This term often denotes the third verse of the Muqam, encapsulating a series of songs derived from motifs within the Twelve Muqam. Meshrep serves as the musical structure and concluding part of a Muqam's development, summarising the characteristics of the preceding sections and concluding the entire musical piece.
• Song Structure: Meshrep songs typically feature 4-5 complex vowel lines and are characterised by cheerful, enthusiastic, and compact tunes that inspire joyous enthusiasm and create a high-spirited mood.

Musical Tracks and Rhythms

The Uyghur version of the "Twelve Muqam" includes distinct sections in Meshrep Muqam, each with specific leaders and unique musical properties:

• First Track (8/7): A laid-back, danceable song.
• Second Track (8/7): A fast, danceable song.
• Fourth Note (4/2): A fast-paced dance song.

These tracks highlight the dramatic and popular elements of Meshrep music, contributing to its widespread appeal among the Uyghur people.

Conclusion

Meshrep, with its deep cultural roots and multifaceted roles in Uyghur society, remains a vibrant tradition. It is a testament to the Uyghur people's ability to blend art, social ethics, and communal joy, preserving a rich cultural legacy for future generations.

 

 

Thirty Men Meshrep

Among the Uyghurs, the "Thirty Men Meshrep" stands out due to its widespread presence, rich content, and well-organised structure. Each member has specific responsibilities, contributing to the overall function and success of the Meshrep.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Meshrep Begi: The highest job title in the Thirty Men Meshrep, Meshrep Begi supervises all processes, including litigation and administrative affairs.
• Darigai Begi: As the head of the youth, Darigai Begi is the main festival organiser and guides its activities. This role is chosen among the village musicians who are skilled in music.
• Kol Begi: Responsible for managing all financial and economic affairs of the Meshrep.
• Pashshap: The manager of discipline, Pashshap acts as Meshrep's guard, ensuring adherence to rules and regulations. They carry a "flower stick" made of soft wire or rubber, which they use to administer punishment if necessary.

An organisational leader typically oversees thirty to forty people. Certain conditions must be met to become a member of the "Thirty Men." When a young person is ready, his father will apply for his membership in front of the Meshrep members. The Meshrep Begi will then address the young man, imparting the importance of patience and manners before he can join.

The young man's father presents symbolic gifts such as camels, horses, cows, and sheep to the Meshrep, then handed over to Kol Begi. The aspiring member must also demonstrate some merit, such as imitating animal or bird sounds.

Membership and Participation

Once a person becomes a member, they must leave with the collective's permission or valid reason. If they wish to withdraw, they must provide satisfactory reasons and introduce a suitable replacement.

Stages of the Meshrep

The "Thirty Men Meshrep" is divided into four stages:

1. Song and Dance
2. Jokes and Slapping
3. Meshrep Games
4. Punishments

Each stage features a wide range of content and solid artistic themes. Violations of rules and regulations result in either financial or negligence punishments. Financial punishments depend on the severity of the crime and the offender's economic situation, with the most severe requiring the provision of fruits, flowers, sugar, etc., for the next celebration.

Types of Punishments

Punishments include:

• "Smash"
• "Cracked"
• "Lunging"
• "Painting on the Wall"
• "Cuckooing"
• "Kicking the Pot"
• "Crackling"
• "Squealing"
• "Cleaning"
• "Immersion"
• "Play with Figs"
• "Rubbing Moth on the Face"
• "Picking Apples from the Garden"

These punishments are carried out actively by the Meshrep.

Community Role

The Thirty Men Meshrep typically starts after the fall harvest and continues until the following spring harvest. It involves public discussions on village affairs, marriages, funerals, and care for orphaned families. Due to its significant role, the Thirty Men Meshrep has a strong reputation and is highly regarded in the community.

In short, the Thirty Men Meshrep serves as the "art school" and "cradle of manners" for the Uyghurs, organising and managing various public ceremonies and events.

 

Reference 
Zunun, M.T. (2019) The Encyclopaedia of Uyghur Tradition and Social Customs. Uyghur Language Studies, London.