Exploring the Origins and Beliefs of the Knowledge 5 Percenters

Exploring the Origins and Beliefs of the Knowledge 5 Percenters

The 5 Percent Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earths, is a cultural movement that originated in Harlem in the mid-1960s. Its followers are known as the “Knowledge 5 Percenters,” and they believe in empowering themselves and their communities through knowledge and self-improvement.

Origins

The 5 Percent Nation was founded by Clarence 13X, a former member of the Nation of Islam. He became disillusioned with the Nation of Islam and began teaching his own version of Islam, which emphasized the importance of knowledge and self-awareness.

When Clarence 13X was kicked out of the Nation of Islam, he started teaching his ideas on street corners in Harlem. His teachings caught on, and he began attracting a following of young Black men who were looking for a sense of purpose and identity.

Beliefs

The 5 Percent Nation’s beliefs are based on a philosophy of self-knowledge and self-awareness, which they refer to as the “Supreme Mathematics.” The Supreme Mathematics is a system of numbers and symbols that are used to represent different concepts and ideas.

According to the 5 Percenters, God is not a being but a state of mind that can be achieved through knowledge of oneself and the universe. They believe that each person is a “God,” with the power to shape their own destiny.

The 5 Percent Nation also places a strong emphasis on the importance of language and naming. They believe that by giving themselves new names that reflect their true identities, they can break free from the stereotypes and labels that society has placed on them.

Impact

The 5 Percent Nation has had a significant impact on hip-hop culture, with many rappers and artists adopting their ideas and language. The Wu-Tang Clan, for example, has referenced the “Supreme Mathematics” in their lyrics, while Jay-Z has been seen wearing a chain with a 5 Percent Nation medallion.

However, the 5 Percent Nation has also been criticized for its views on women and its association with the Nation of Islam, which has been accused of promoting homophobic and anti-Semitic views.

Conclusion

The 5 Percent Nation’s beliefs are rooted in a philosophy of self-knowledge and self-awareness, and its followers believe in empowering themselves and their communities through education and self-improvement. While it has had a significant impact on hip-hop culture, it has also been criticized for its views on women and its association with the Nation of Islam. Regardless of its criticisms, the Knowledge 5 Percenters continue to strive towards a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them.