Elijah Muhammad (originally Elijah Poole) was a significant leader in the Nation of Islam (NOI) from the 1930s until his death in 1975. Born on October 7, 1897, in Sandersville, Georgia, he became an influential religious and cultural leader, known primarily for his role in establishing and expanding the NOI, a Black nationalist and religious movement with a focus on Black empowerment, economic independence, and social justice.
Under Elijah Muhammad’s leadership, the Nation of Islam grew from a small movement into a major force in Black America, advocating self-reliance, discipline, and unity. He emphasized the idea that African Americans should embrace their unique cultural identity, apart from mainstream American society, and promoted Black businesses and educational institutions.
He is also widely known for mentoring and inspiring major figures, including Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali, though his relationship with Malcolm X eventually became strained due to ideological and personal differences. His teachings often diverged from traditional Islam, incorporating unique beliefs about race and theology, which led to some controversy but also helped establish the NOI’s distinct identity.
Elijah Muhammad’s legacy remains influential. While his views on race and separation were controversial, his impact on the civil rights movement, Black pride, and empowerment left a lasting mark. His son, Warith Deen Mohammed, later took over part of the NOI, shifting its teachings toward a more orthodox form of Islam. However, Elijah Muhammad’s influence continues to shape the NOI, currently led by Louis Farrakhan.