Message to the Blackman in America

1. Allah is God: Reject Mystery, Embrace Manifest Truth

To teach people that God is a Mystery God is to teach them that God is unknown.

Rejecting the Unknown. The book challenges the concept of a "Mystery God," arguing that such a notion keeps people in ignorance and spiritual bondage. It asserts that for too long, people have worshiped their own ideas of God, rather than the true, knowable God. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad emphasizes that Allah, in the person of Master Fard Muhammad, has come to reveal the true nature of God, ending the era of mystery.

God as a Material Being. A core tenet is the affirmation of God as a material being, not a spirit. This challenges traditional Christian beliefs and emphasizes a tangible, accessible God. The book argues that if God is a spirit, then humans, made in His image, would also be spirits, which contradicts the material reality of human existence.

The Devil's Deception. The teaching of a "Mystery God" is attributed to the devil, Yakub, who sought to keep humanity from the true knowledge of Allah. This deception, according to the book, has been a tool to enslave minds and maintain the devil's rule. The arrival of Master Fard Muhammad signifies the end of this deception and the beginning of a new era of truth and righteousness.

2. Original Man: Know Thyself to Reclaim Your Power

It is knowledge of self that the so-called Negroes lack which keeps them from enjoying freedom, justice and equality.

The Power of Self-Knowledge. The book stresses that the so-called Negroes' lack of self-knowledge is the primary obstacle to their freedom, justice, and equality. This ignorance, a result of centuries of oppression and misinformation, has left them vulnerable to exploitation and manipulation. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that Allah has come to restore this lost knowledge, empowering them to reclaim their rightful place in the world.

Descendants of the Asiatic Black Nation. The book identifies the so-called Negroes as descendants of the Asiatic Black Nation and the Tribe of Shabazz, connecting them to an ancient and powerful lineage. This knowledge is meant to instill pride and a sense of belonging, replacing the imposed identity of "Negro" with a connection to a rich cultural heritage.

Rejecting the White Race's Influence. A key aspect of reclaiming self is rejecting the names, religion, and customs of the white race. This separation is seen as essential for gaining true independence and breaking the chains of mental and spiritual slavery. The book urges readers to embrace their own culture and identity, rather than trying to assimilate into a society that has historically oppressed them.

3. Islam: A Religion of Dignity and Universal Brotherhood

Islam is our salvation. It removes fear, grief, and sorrow from any believer and it brings to us peace of mind of contentment.

Islam as the True Religion. The book presents Islam as the only true religion of God, offering a path to salvation, freedom, and dignity for the so-called Negroes. It contrasts Islam with Christianity, which is portrayed as a tool of the white race to enslave black minds. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad emphasizes that Islam is the religion of the prophets, from Adam to Muhammad, and that it offers a universal brotherhood that transcends race and nationality.

Rejecting the Trinity. The book rejects the Christian concept of the Trinity, emphasizing the Oneness of God (Allah). It argues that the belief in three gods is illogical and contrary to the teachings of the prophets. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that Allah is a single, indivisible being, and that worship should be directed to Him alone.

A Religion of Peace and Righteousness. Islam is presented as a religion of peace, justice, and equality, offering a stark contrast to the violence and oppression associated with the white race. The book emphasizes that Islam dignifies its followers, instilling a sense of self-respect and purpose. It calls on the so-called Negroes to embrace Islam as a means of reclaiming their humanity and building a righteous society.

4. The Bible and Holy Quran: Seek Truth, Shun Falsehood

The beautiful teachings of the Holy Quran have no equal in other scriptures.

Discerning Truth from Falsehood. The book emphasizes the importance of discerning truth from falsehood in religious texts. While acknowledging that the Bible contains some truth, it argues that it has been tampered with and misinterpreted, leading to confusion and spiritual enslavement. The Holy Qur'an, on the other hand, is presented as a pure and unadulterated source of divine guidance.

The Holy Qur'an as a Guide. The book promotes the Holy Qur'an as the ultimate guide for the so-called Negroes, offering clear and unambiguous teachings on God, morality, and the path to salvation. It encourages readers to study the Holy Qur'an and to seek understanding from trusted Muslim scholars, rather than relying on interpretations from Christian authors.

Rejecting False Teachers. The book warns against seeking religious guidance from white people, who are portrayed as enemies of truth and righteousness. It urges readers to reject the teachings of false prophets and to embrace the true knowledge of Allah, as revealed in the Holy Qur'an. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that the Holy Qur'an is the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe and to understanding the true nature of God and humanity.

5. The Devil: Unmask the Architect of Deception

According to Allah, the origin of such teachings as a Mystery God is from the devils!

The White Race as the Devil. A central and controversial tenet of the book is the identification of the white race as the devil. This is not a metaphorical or symbolic designation, but a literal one, rooted in the belief that the white race was created by a rebellious scientist named Yakub. This creation, according to the book, was intended to disrupt the peace and harmony of the original black nation.

Yakub's Grafting Process. The book details the story of Yakub, who, through a process of selective breeding and social engineering, created the white race. This process involved teaching his followers to lie, deceive, and murder, instilling these traits into the very nature of the white race. The result, according to the book, is a race of devils, whose primary purpose is to oppose God and oppress the black nation.

The Devil's Tactics. The book outlines the tactics used by the devil to deceive and control humanity. These include promoting false religions, spreading lies and misinformation, and exploiting the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of the black race. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad warns readers to be vigilant against these tactics and to resist the devil's influence at all costs.

6. Prayer Service: A Path to Strength and Submission

Nay, whoever submits his whole self to Allah and is a doer of good, he will get his regard with his Lord, on such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

Submission to Allah's Will. The book emphasizes the importance of prayer as a means of submitting to the will of Allah. It argues that true salvation comes from complete and unwavering obedience to God's commands. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that prayer is not merely a ritual, but a transformative act that purifies the heart and strengthens the connection between the individual and Allah.

The Power of Muslim Prayer. The book highlights the unique qualities of Muslim prayer, including its emphasis on cleanliness, humility, and sincerity. It describes the specific postures and recitations of the prayer service, explaining their symbolic significance. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that Muslim prayer is a powerful force for good in the world, promoting unity, equality, and love among believers.

Rejecting False Idols. The book warns against praying to false idols or seeking intercession from anyone other than Allah. It argues that true prayer is directed to God alone, and that any attempt to worship other beings is a form of idolatry. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that the so-called Negroes must reject the false gods of the white race and embrace the true God of Islam.

7. Program and Position: A Blueprint for Self-Development

A Program for Self-Development

A Call for Self-Reliance. The book outlines a comprehensive program for self-development, aimed at empowering the so-called Negroes to take control of their lives and destinies. This program emphasizes education, economic independence, and moral upliftment. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad urges readers to reject the victim mentality and to embrace a proactive approach to building a better future.

The Ten Desires. The book lists ten specific goals that the Muslims want for their people, including freedom, justice, equality, and a separate state or territory of their own. These goals are presented as essential for achieving true independence and breaking free from the cycle of oppression. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that these desires are not merely aspirations, but divinely ordained objectives that will be fulfilled with Allah's help.

Rejecting Integration. A key aspect of the program is the rejection of integration with the white race. The book argues that integration is a deceptive trap designed to prevent the so-called Negroes from realizing their full potential. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that true progress can only be achieved through separation and self-determination.

8. Economic Program: Build Wealth, Secure Independence

To Help Fight Against Poverty and Want

Economic Independence as a Goal. The book emphasizes the importance of economic independence as a means of achieving true freedom and self-determination. It argues that the so-called Negroes must break free from their dependence on the white race and build their own economic system. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad outlines a plan for creating wealth and prosperity within the black community, including promoting black-owned businesses, supporting black farmers, and investing in black education.

A Three-Year Economic Savings Plan. A central component of the economic program is a three-year savings plan, in which members of the black community are encouraged to contribute a portion of their income to a national savings bank. This fund would then be used to purchase land, build factories, and create jobs for black people. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that this plan, if implemented with discipline and unity, could transform the economic landscape of the black community.

Rejecting Extravagance. The book warns against extravagant spending and encourages readers to prioritize saving and investing over material possessions. It argues that the so-called Negroes have been conditioned to waste their money on frivolous items, rather than using it to build wealth and security for themselves and their families. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that true prosperity comes from self-discipline and a commitment to building a strong economic foundation.

9. The Persecution of the Righteous: Stand Firm in Faith

Persecution follows the Coming of God

The Inevitability of Persecution. The book acknowledges that persecution is an inevitable consequence of following the path of righteousness. It argues that those who stand for truth and justice will always face opposition from those who benefit from oppression and injustice. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad encourages readers to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of adversity.

Drawing Strength from Allah. The book emphasizes that Allah is the ultimate protector of the righteous. It urges readers to put their trust in God and to seek His guidance and strength in times of trouble. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that Allah will always defend those who are loyal to Him and that He will ultimately triumph over their enemies.

The Example of the Prophets. The book draws parallels between the persecution faced by the Muslims and the persecution faced by prophets throughout history. It argues that the so-called Negroes are following in the footsteps of these great figures, and that their suffering is a sign of their righteousness. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad encourages readers to take inspiration from the examples of the prophets and to remain committed to their faith, no matter the cost.

10. Land of Our Own: A Foundation for Self-Governance

The Unity of 22 Million

The Necessity of a Separate Territory. The book argues that the so-called Negroes can never achieve true freedom and equality without a separate territory of their own. It asserts that as long as they remain within the white man's society, they will always be subjected to oppression and discrimination. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad calls for the establishment of a black nation, where the so-called Negroes can govern themselves and build a society based on their own values and principles.

Qualifications for Self-Government. The book addresses the question of whether the so-called Negroes are qualified for self-government. It argues that they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to build a successful nation. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that the key to self-governance is unity and a commitment to serving the interests of the black community.

A Call for Unity. The book emphasizes the importance of unity among the so-called Negroes. It argues that their divisions and internal conflicts have been a major obstacle to their progress. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad calls on readers to put aside their differences and to unite under the banner of Islam, working together to build a better future for themselves and their children.

11. Hypocrites, Disbelievers, and Obedience: Choose Truth, Shun Falsehood

We Need Not Have Fear For Future

Identifying Hypocrites. The book warns against the dangers of hypocrites, who are portrayed as wolves in sheep's clothing, seeking to undermine the Muslim community from within. It urges readers to be vigilant against these deceivers and to remain loyal to the true teachings of Islam. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad stresses that hypocrites are more dangerous than open enemies, as they can sow seeds of doubt and division among the faithful.

The Importance of Obedience. The book emphasizes the importance of obedience to Allah and His Messenger. It argues that true faith requires complete submission to God's will, as revealed in the Holy Qur'an and the teachings of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad. The book warns against questioning or challenging the authority of the Messenger, as this is seen as a sign of disbelief and rebellion.

The Consequences of Disobedience. The book outlines the dire consequences of disobedience to Allah and His Messenger. It asserts that those who reject the truth will face a painful chastisement in this life and the hereafter. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad urges readers to choose wisely, to embrace the path of righteousness, and to avoid the fate of the disbelievers and hypocrites.

12. The Judgment: A Call to Accountability and Renewal

On Universal Corruption

The Imminent Judgment. The book proclaims that the judgment of the wicked world is at hand. It asserts that the time of the white race's rule is coming to an end, and that Allah is preparing to usher in a new era of righteousness and justice. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad warns readers to be prepared for the coming judgment and to take steps to protect themselves from the impending destruction.

The Sins of America. The book condemns America for its sins, particularly its mistreatment of the so-called Negroes. It argues that America's wealth and power have been built on the backs of slaves, and that the nation is now facing divine retribution for its wickedness. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad asserts that America's doom is sealed, and that only those who repent and turn to Allah can escape the coming destruction.

A New World of Righteousness. The book offers a vision of a new world of righteousness, where the so-called Negroes will rule in peace and justice. It asserts that this new world will be characterized by equality, freedom, and prosperity for all. The Honorable Elijah Muhammad urges readers to embrace this vision and to work towards its realization, knowing that Allah is on their side.

Last updated: February 23, 2025