In and Out of This World

This book provides a fresh perspective on the Nation of Islam's religious practices and discourses, particularly how they shaped black identity. In and Out of This World explores these themes in depth.

In In and Out of This World, Stephen C. Finley provides an insightful exploration of the religious practices and discourses within the Nation of Islam (NOI). He delves into how the leaders of the NOI, including notable figures such as Elijah Muhammad, Malcolm X, Warith Deen Mohammad, and Louis Farrakhan, employed a variety of religious and esoteric symbols. These symbols were pivotal in positioning black bodies as significant sites of religious meaning, transcending the limitations imposed by systemic racism.

Finley meticulously analyzes the speeches and writings of these influential leaders, revealing how their narratives reshaped the understanding of black identity. For instance, he discusses the myth of Yakub, which Elijah Muhammad used to articulate the historical violence faced by black bodies. Moreover, Malcolm X's efforts to make black bodies visible in the public sphere are examined, highlighting the transformative power of visibility in the struggle against oppression. Farrakhan's interpretations of his experiences with the Mother Wheel UFO further illustrate the innovative ways in which the NOI redefined black identity.

Ultimately, In and Out of This World argues that the Nation of Islam sought to reclaim and reform black bodies within a landscape marked by antiblack violence. Finley's work not only sheds light on the spiritual dimensions of the NOI but also underscores the broader implications of these discourses in the quest for dignity and self-identity among black Americans.