Anthea McGibbon
After 18 years Farrakhan is finally able to worship in a synagogue. After the historic moment, he is greeted by lay preacher, Stephen Henriques, right. At centre is Leonard Farrakhan Muhammad. Partly hidden is Ainsley Henriques.Anthea McGibbon, Religion Feature Co-ordinator
Louis Farrakhan and his entourage have departed our shores. But there is now an 'understanding of peace' document being worked on to be signed by local Jews and Farrakhan representatives.
It's now anybody's guess if the interests of the religious sector have been fully served by the visit of "the controversial Muslim leader." What was his goal and, was it really accomplished? What impact will the visit have on the religious minds of Jamaicans, in particular the Muslims?
Chief of Staff, Brother Leonard Farrakhan Muhammad, has an administrative and diplomatic role to serve the interest of the office of the leader of the Nation of Islam. It was his third visit here in that capacity. He told The Sunday Gleaner that while the main purpose for visiting Jamaica was to address economic empowerment here, one of the major accomplishments of the 10-day visit was "the merger (peace) between the Jewish and Muslim communities."
In explaining that the nation of Islam is not a business enterprise, Brother Muhammad added that this particular visit was for the sole purpose of imparting knowledge. "Words are spoken and written to the benefit of people. Material things do not elevate people rather it is knowledge," he said.
On Saturday, March 23, perhaps another cause for controversy was spawned, when Minister Farrakhan not only worshipped with Jews at the Duke Street synagogue, but met with them afterwards to address their three main concerns relating to him.
In his greetings, past president of the United Congregation of Israelites, Ainsley Henriques, who also threw out the questions, identified Farrakhan "as an example to the Muslim faith."
Three major Muslim groups exist in Jamaica and representatives of the other two groups were asked to respond.
"I don't know much about Farrakhan, except what I read in the papers" said Imam Muhammad Islam of the mosque at Leicester Avenue (off Red Hills Road). In an effort to avoid any controvery or animosity, the Imam further declined to comment on the little he knew.
Speaking on behalf of the mosques headquartered at South Camp Road, Shaykh Sadique Muncey said "For mainstream Muslims within the island, Mr. Louis Farrakhan is deemed as one who has deviated from the pure authentic teachings of Islam. His call to end political tribalism is tantamount to hyprocrisy owing to the fact that he is a preacher of racism, a social evil, which Islam condemns outrightly. His title as the leader of "the Nation of Islam" the organisation which he governs should only be restricted to it, and, by no means taken to represent Muslims in general."
On the matter of the Jamaican public, Brother Leonard Farrakhan Muhammad observed that Minister Farrakhan was "exceedingly well-received." Future plans include another visit by the chief of staff in several weeks. He will have further discussions to implement projects, education and reform in institutions such as schools and prisons. Jamaicans will be left to follow through on these projects.
In a follow-up to meetings held with local Jewish leaders, an 'understanding of peace' document is being worked on between the two parties.
Commenting on the foundation of peace Brother Muhhammad pointed out that a "primary example of peace is the religious sector. All religions should come together, acknowledge that God is one and that He is not divided. That idea can be brought through the Jamaican population."
