Elijah Muhammad

Elijah Muhammad (born Elijah Robert Poole; October 7, 1897 – February 25, 1975) was an influential African American religious leader, who led the Nation of Islam (NOI) from 1934 until his death in 1975. He was a mentor to several notable figures, including Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, and his own son, Warith Deen Mohammed.

Early Life

Elijah Muhammad was born Elijah Robert Poole in Sandersville, Georgia, the seventh of thirteen children to Mariah and William Poole Sr. He received little formal education and worked in various jobs including farming and lumber work.

Leadership of the Nation of Islam

In 1931, Poole attended a speech by Wallace Fard Muhammad, the founder of the Nation of Islam. Inspired by Fard's teachings, Poole changed his name to Elijah Muhammad and quickly rose through the ranks of the organization. When Fard disappeared in 1934, Elijah Muhammad assumed leadership of the NOI.

Under Elijah Muhammad's leadership, the NOI grew from a small, obscure movement to a significant force within the African American community. He established a network of mosques and schools throughout the United States, and created the NOI's newspaper, Muhammad Speaks.

Teachings

Elijah Muhammad's teachings were a unique blend of Islam and Black nationalism. He preached that Black people were the original people of the world, and that they would eventually rise to power over whites. He also taught that Wallace Fard Muhammad was Allah in person, and that he (Elijah Muhammad) was Allah's final messenger.

Legacy

Elijah Muhammad's influence continues to be felt today. His teachings have influenced a wide range of individuals and groups, from the Black Panther Party to contemporary hip-hop artists. His son, Warith Deen Mohammed, led a significant number of NOI members to traditional Islam after his father's death.

See Also

• Nation of Islam
• Malcolm X
• Muhammad Ali
• Warith Deen Mohammed

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