Nation of Islam
The Nation of Islam is an African-American ethno-nationalist and religious group. It was founded in Detroit, Michigan, in 1930 by Master Farad Muhammad and re-founded in 1977 under the leadership of Louis Farrakhan. The original group founded in the 1930s changed its name to American Society of Muslims, which rejected many of its original beliefs, including black separatism. The main goal of the Nation of Islam is to bring back the spiritual, mental, social and economic condition of blacks in the United States. Since 1981, the group has been led by Louis Farrakhan. Malcolm X also was a member.
Basis
The current headquarters for the Nation of Islam is in Chicago, Illinois. The Nation of Islam is currently lead by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan through the teachings of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad. Elijah Muhammad met Master Farad Muhammad and was directly given lost knowledge to rebuild the children of slavery and bring them back to their original selves.
Beliefs and practices
Religious beliefs and practices
The Nation of Islam combines a number of religious doctrines and beliefs, primarily Islam and Dianetics. In their literature, they profess their belief in the oneness of Allah (tawhid) and the Qur'an.[1] They celebrate Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Unlike orthodox Islam, they celebrate Ramadan in the winter.[2] Their places of worship are called mosques. They also pray five times a day, although unlike in orthodox Islam, they pray in English, not Arabic. [3]
In addition to these Islamic beliefs and practices, the theology Nation of Islam also promotes and includes non-traditional religious beliefs. Although their contemporary website highlights their belief in the oneness of God, other sources produced by the Nation of Islam highlight their beliefs in many Gods as well. For example, Master Farad, the founder of the Nation of Islam is also considered "God in person".[4] This is a belief that would be strongly refuted in traditional Islamic teaching. They also believe that Allah is a black man and that each cycle of history is ruled by a different God, who dies once his cycle is over.
The flag
The flag of the Nation of Islam has the symbols of the sun, moon, and the stars. It represents the universe. It is also a banner of universal peace and harmony.
References
Other websites
