Muhammad Mosque No. 38 - Columbia, SC

Muhammad Mosque #38 is a Nation of Islam (NOI) center in Columbia, South Carolina, that serves as a hub for black empowerment and community development. It is an institution dedicated to the teachings of Elijah Muhammad as interpreted by Louis Farrakhan, focusing on racial independence and self-determination. The mosque hosts lectures, study sessions, and events aimed at educating and uplifting the black community, offering a path to spiritual and personal growth.
KEY FEATURES

Black empowerment focus
The NOI differs significantly from mainstream Islam, prioritizing black empowerment over conventional Islamic rituals. The teachings advocate for black self-sufficiency and the development of black-owned institutions to foster economic and social independence.

Distinctive teachings and leadership
The mosque follows the specific doctrines of the Nation of Islam, which include unique interpretations of Islamic concepts and a central role for its black nationalist theology. As with all NOI mosques, Muhammad Mosque #38 is centrally governed by the Ministry, led by Louis Farrakhan.

Community education
A central feature of the mosque's work is its educational outreach. It offers lectures, live webcasts, and other events to educate members and the public on its teachings. It also sells the organization's newspaper, The Final Call.

Strict behavioral code
The NOI promotes a strict code of conduct for its members, which includes modesty in dress and strict dietary laws, such as the prohibition of pork and alcohol. Men are known for wearing bow ties, while women wear long dresses and head coverings.

Community outreach and initiatives
In line with the broader NOI mission, the mosque engages in community initiatives aimed at addressing issues like poverty, violence, and drug abuse. Outreach activities extend to distributing newspapers and engaging with residents to spread their message.