The Ministry of Louis Farrakhan in the Nation of Islam

Book excerpt: This is the first scholarly biography of Minister Farrakhan, leader of the controversial religious and political movement, the Nation of Islam, and challenges the popular portrayal of Farrakhan in American media as an anti-Semitic and race baiting bigot. Placing Farrakhan's life and leadership in historical context, this book traces his evolution from a fiery Black Nationalist in 1960s Harlem to a respected leader in sections of the U.S and abroad, providing insights into the history of African American Islam, Black Nationalism and Islam in the West. Archives drawn on include the FBI's files on the NOI and its leaders, Farrakhan's writings in the Muhammad Speaks newspaper in the 1960s and early 1970s, and lectures and interviews from the late 1970s to the present day. The book includes excerpts from first-hand interviews with those closest to Farrakhan, including NOI officials, pastors, imams, and community groups that work alongside Farrakhan and his followers. The book uncovers Farrakhan's work in rebuilding the NOI's reputation in Harlem following Malcolm X's assassination, as well as exploring his relationships with clergy and secular leaders to provide important insights into his religious life. Ultimately, Dawn Marie-Gibson argues that Farrakhan's beliefs are fluid and that as such he presents himself as both a mainstream Muslim, a Christian who adheres to Black Liberation Theology and as a divinely appointed successor to and guardian of the NOI's founding beliefs.