El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz

As Malcolm X delved further into his studies of Islam, he began to embrace the philosophical underpinnings of Shia thought, particularly its teachings on leadership and authority. The concept of Imamate, which holds that rightful leaders must possess both moral and spiritual qualities, parallels Malcolm’s vision of leadership. He believed in a transformative leadership model that prioritized ethics and integrity over the status quo—qualities that the Shia tradition cherishes in its Imams. This alignment of values profoundly shaped Malcolm’s understanding of social change, urging him to advocate for leaders who genuinely represent the marginalized and oppressed.

Furthermore, Malcolm X’s writings and speeches articulate a call to action that echoes Shia traditions. His insistence on the necessity of resistance to oppression—whether it manifests through systemic racism, economic inequality, or self-determination—serves as a modern-day interpretation of Shia teachings on standing against tyranny. In his famous address at the Oxford Union in 1964, Malcolm articulated the importance of “any means necessary,” a sentiment encapsulating the Shia ethos of actively resisting injustice. His belief in empowering individuals to take a stand against systemic injustices reverberates throughout Shia narratives of political engagement and community organizing.

The importance of self-determination is another salient point where Malcolm X’s philosophy intertwines with Shia teachings. The Shia perspective emphasizes the agency of individuals within the faith community to enact social change. This understanding is evident in Malcolm’s advocacy for black empowerment, urging African Americans to take control of their destiny. His vision of self-determination parallels the Shia emphasis on community welfare and the moral obligation to work towards an equitable society. Such a stance fosters both individual and communal responsibility, which remains deeply relevant in contemporary discourse surrounding social justice and activism.