Description

Elijah Muhammad and the Supreme of Literacy explores how Elijah Muhammad framed the term literacy as contrasted with its generally known definitions and applications. The text frames a construct for understanding why Elijah Muhammad considered the science of literacy essential to the success of the Blackman and woman in America specifically, and people in general. It outlines the scriptural foundations of Muhammads teachings, drawn from both Bible and Quran. A detailed review of the course of study prescribed for his followers supplies Elijah Muhammads the unique perspective on both literacy and language. Examples of his study curricula are offered. A brief history of Muhammads own educational process is presented, with an emphasis on the pedagogy of literacy as practiced by Muhammads teacher, W.D. Fard. Material on the early educational focus of The Nation of Islam is introduced. And finally, general commentary on the teachings is made known through the lenses of three men in their role as teachers: W. D. Fard, teacher of Elijah Muhammad, Muhammad himself, and Minister Louis Farrakhan, student of Elijah Muhammad.