The Black Hebrew Israelites: religion, beliefs, and their spiritual leader

Welcome back to the second chapter of our exploration into the world of the Black Hebrew Israelites.

In our previous article, we retraced their extraordinary journey - a migration that began in the United States, passed through Liberia, and culminated in Israel. Today, we delve deeper into their unique identity, uncovering the profound beliefs that guide their lives, their distinctive interpretation of creation, and the lasting legacy of their visionary leader, Ben-Ami Ben-Israel.

The Black Hebrew Israelites Community in Dimona, Israel.

A spiritual path

The Black Hebrew Israelites stand apart from the traditional frameworks of organized religion, carving out a path that places spirituality at the center of their existence. They view institutionalized faith not as a unifying force but as one that fragments humanity, creating barriers where bridges are needed most. Rejecting these divisions, they embrace an all-encompassing spirituality - a philosophy they describe as a "24/7 relationship with God, creation, and each other."

This perspective, rooted deeply in their interpretation of the Torah, transcends the rituals and doctrines that often define religion. For them, the Torah is not merely a set of commandments but a living guide for achieving harmony within oneself, with others, and within society as a whole. Their spirituality is a journey without end - a continuous process of enlightenment and unity that equips them to navigate the complexities of life while striving to mend a world they perceive as fractured by division and discord.

A bold interpretation of creation

The community’s understanding of creation diverges boldly from conventional teachings, offering a vision that is both radical and thought-provoking. They move beyond the literal interpretation of the story of Adam and Eve, seeing these figures not as the first humans but as a chosen people entrusted with the sacred mission of bringing order to a chaotic and untamed world.

Central to this belief is their reinterpretation of the Hebrew phrase "Bereshit," traditionally rendered as "In the beginning." They argue that a more accurate translation - “In a beginning" - points to the idea of an eternal, cyclical creation composed of countless epochs. This view invites a broader, more dynamic understanding of humanity’s place within an infinite cosmos.

For the Black Hebrew Israelites, Africa is not only the birthplace of humanity but also a spiritual touchstone - a living Eden preserved through time. They regard the continent as a symbol of humanity’s potential to reconnect with its origins and envision a future defined by harmony, balance, and renewal.

Ben-Ami Ben-Israel: the visionary leader who redefined their path

At the heart of this community’s story lies the remarkable figure of Ben-Ami Ben-Israel, whose leadership and vision reshaped their identity and mission. In 1966, amidst the civil rights struggles of America, Ben-Ami experienced what he described as a divine calling - a moment of clarity that inspired him to lead his people on an unprecedented journey back to their ancestral homeland.

This mission began with courage and determination, guiding his followers from the urban landscapes of America to the dense jungles of Liberia, and finally to the spiritual and historical promise of Israel. Ben-Ami’s leadership was not about self-glorification but about empowerment. He was seen as a messianic figure, though not in the traditional sense: instead of presenting himself as a universal savior, he sought to inspire a collective transformation, encouraging his community to become a "light unto the nations." His vision was one of shared responsibility, where every individual contributed to the creation of a society rooted in spiritual growth and harmony.

The journey to Israel: a symbol of faith and resilience

The migration to Israel was both a physical journey and a deeply symbolic act. In 1968, Ben-Ami sent a trusted aide - referred to as "the scout" - to Israel to prepare the way for the community’s eventual arrival. Alone in an unfamiliar land, the scout faced profound challenges, including cultural isolation and logistical obstacles, yet persisted in paving the path for their shared dream.

By 1969, the first wave of Black Hebrew Israelites arrived in Israel, marking the fulfillment of Ben-Ami’s vision. Their migration intertwined with pivotal moments in history, including the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the broader civil rights movement. For the community, this return to their ancestral homeland was a continuation of Dr. King’s vision of a "promised land" for the oppressed - a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope.

A legacy of unity and perseverance

Since the sudden passing of Ben-Ami in 2014, the Black Hebrew Israelites have remained steadfast in their mission, drawing strength from his teachings as they continue to build upon his vision. They see themselves as heralds of a new beginning for humanity, striving to live in harmony with each other and the world around them.

Their journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of unity, faith, and perseverance - a story that transcends boundaries and speaks to the universal quest for connection and purpose.

In our next article, we will step into the veganism practice of the Black Hebrew Israelites in Israel, uncovering their cultural traditions. Stay with us as we continue this captivating exploration.