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The Nation of Islam (NOI) has been a significant force in African American religious and social life since its inception in the early 20th century. Understanding its history, teachings, and impact requires delving into a variety of scholarly works. And, understanding Black America and Black American history is incomplete without recognizing the profound contributions and influence of the NOI.
As Alex Haley, author of the book “Roots” and collaborator on “The Autobiography of Malcolm X,” reportedly once said of NOI leader Elijah Muhammad, “If I had to pick the single person who has been the most important figure for Blacks in the Black thrust from post-World War ll, I would unequivocally pick Elijah Muhammad. Because it was he who….was like a lightning bolt in opening up the consciousness of black people…from this just blank psychic wall of just total fear of the structure in which we lived. And I am saying these things clinically,” according to Black Scholar.
Here are the 13 best books to master a secular, historical understanding of the Nation of Islam.
The books are not in order of significance.
“The History of the Nation of Islam Vol. 1: The Pioneer Years (1930-1950)” by Wakeel Allah is a documentary history of the Nation of Islam. The 2015 book offers a comprehensive account of its formative years from 1930 to 1950. Through witnessed accounts and historical perspectives, the book highlights key events, figures, and ideologies that shaped the early development of the NOI.
C. Eric Lincoln’s “The Black Muslims in America,” originally published in 1961, is considered a classic sociological study. This book provides a concise introduction to the Black Muslim movement in America. Lincoln’s work explores the origins, development, and social significance of the movement, offering valuable insights into its evolution over time.
“Mother of the Nation: Clara Evans Muhammad: Wife of Elijah Muhammad, Mother of Imam W. Deen Mohammed” written in 2020 by Dr. R. Zakiyyah Muhammad and the Institute of Muslim American is a biography chronicling the life of Clara Evans Muhammad, the wife of Elijah Muhammad and a central figure in the Nation of Islam. The book offers a detailed portrait of her role in shaping the NOI’s social and cultural agenda through primary sources and personal interviews.
“In the Name of Allah, Vol. 1: A History of Clarence 13X and the Five Percenters” by Wakeel Allah focuses on the founder of the Five Percenters, Clarence 13X Smith. The 2009 book traces the origins and evolution of this influential youth movement. Clarence 13X was former member of Elijah Muhammad’s Nation of Islam and studied under Minister Malcolm X at the Harlem Mosque in the early ’60s. He left the organization and subsequently founded a youth movement based on the core doctrine of the NOI and his own lessons referred to as Supreme Mathematics and Supreme Alphabets. Through Supreme Mathematics and Supreme Alphabets, Clarence 13X laid the groundwork for a philosophy that continues to resonate with urban youth even today.
“The Messenger: The Rise and Fall of Elijah Muhammad” by Karl Evanzz is a biography published in 1999 that offers a comprehensive account of Elijah Muhammad, the founder and leader of the Nation of Islam. Evanzz delves into Muhammad’s teachings, his influence on African-American religious identity, and the complexities of his personal life.
Karl Evanzz’s “The Judas Factor: The Plot to Kill Malcolm X,” published in 1992, has been described as a compelling work that explores the conspiracy to monitor, manipulate, and silence Malcolm X. Drawing on interviews and declassified government documents, the book offers a nuanced perspective on Malcolm X’s assassination and its broader implications.
“Finding W.D. Fard: Unveiling the Identity of the Founder of the Nation of Islam” is by John Andrew Morrow. This scholarly work, released in 2019, delves into the mysterious figure of W.D. Fard, the founder of the Nation of Islam. Through meticulous research and analysis, the book examines Fard’s teachings, origins, and influence, providing valuable insights into the early history of the movement.
“The Five Percenters: Islam, Hip-hop and the Gods of New York” by Michael Muhammad Knight. In this 2008 book, Knight offers a comprehensive exploration of the Five Percenters, a movement deeply intertwined with the Nation of Islam and urban American culture. From its origins to its influence on hip-hop and black empowerment, this book provides a fascinating look at a lesser-known aspect of African-American religious life.
“The Life and Times of Elijah Muhammad” by Claude Andrew Clegg provides a detailed biography of Elijah Muhammad, tracing his journey from the Jim Crow South to his leadership of the Nation of Islam. Drawing on a wealth of sources, including Muhammad’s own writings and government documents, the book, published in 2014, offers a comprehensive overview of his life and legacy.
Published in 1993, “American Jihad: Islam After Malcolm X” by Steven Barboza explores the diverse experiences and perspectives of American Muslims in the aftermath of Malcolm X‘s influence. Through interviews and personal reflections, the book sheds light on the concept of jihad as struggle and the complexities of Muslim identity in America.
“The Nation of Islam, Louis Farrakhan, and the Men Who Follow Him” by Dawn-Marie Gibson examines the diverse ways in which Minister Louis Farrakhan’s resurrected Nation of Islam appeals to men from different backgrounds. Through archival research and in-depth interviews, Gibson delves into themes of faith, family, and community, shedding light on the multifaceted experiences of men within the NOI. The book was published in 2016.
Published in 2021, “My Journey Through the Nation of Islam: A Memoir” by Lynice Muhammad is a deeply personal memoir. Muhammad shares her experiences as an active participant in the Nation of Islam from childhood. From triumphs to challenges, she provides a firsthand account of how faith, family, and the teachings of Elijah Muhammad shaped her life’s journey.
“The Book of Khallid: The Untold Story of Khallid Abdul Muhammad, Militant Prophet to Today’s Radical Generation,” by attorney Malik Zulu Shabazz, delves into the life of Khallid Abdul Muhammad. From his tenure as the passionate spokesman for Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan to his leadership in the New Black Panther Party, Muhammad’s legacy is complex. Condemned by Congress and the White House, Muhammad’s oratory skills captivated audiences, leading to clashes with authorities and even an assassination attempt. Shabazz was a former aide and spokesman for Muhammad.
Book covers via Amazon.com.
