Quick answer: Black Hebrew Israelites are a diverse set of religious movements whose adherents identify Black people—often African Americans—as descendants of the ancient Israelites. They are not one denomination, and they should not be treated as synonymous with Judaism, Black Judaism or Black Christian churches.
At a glance
Who are the Black Hebrew Israelites?
Black Hebrew Israelite is an umbrella term for multiple religious groups and communities that developed primarily in the United States and that connect Black identity with descent from the biblical Israelites.
There is no single Black Hebrew Israelite denomination, centralized authority or universal theology. That diversity is the first thing to understand before comparing the movement with Christianity or Judaism.
What do Black Hebrew Israelites believe?
Beliefs vary considerably. Many groups emphasize Hebrew Bible narratives, Israelite identity, biblical law and distinctive interpretations of Black history. Some groups use Christian language or accept Jesus in some form, while others do not.
Because the movement is internally diverse, statements such as “Black Hebrew Israelites believe X” should be treated cautiously unless they refer to a specific organization.
Do Black Hebrew Israelites believe in Jesus?
Some do and some do not. Certain groups recognize Jesus—often using Hebrew names or distinctive theological interpretations—while other groups reject Christian claims about Jesus entirely.
This question comes up constantly, and it shows why the movement cannot be classified as simply Christian or Jewish.
Black Hebrew Israelites, Judaism and extremist sects
Black Hebrew Israelites are not the same category as Black Jews who practice recognized forms of Judaism. Jewish identity, conversion, communal recognition and religious practice involve different histories and institutions.
Some Black Hebrew Israelite sects have been identified by civil-rights and extremism-monitoring organizations as extremist because of antisemitic, racist or other hateful ideology. It is important not to apply those classifications to every Black Hebrew Israelite group or individual.
Key takeaways
Frequently asked questions
Who are the Black Hebrew Israelites?
They are diverse religious movements whose adherents connect Black identity with descent from the ancient Israelites.
Do Black Hebrew Israelites believe in Jesus?
Some groups do, often with distinctive interpretations, while others do not.
Are Black Hebrew Israelites Jewish?
The movement is not equivalent to recognized Jewish denominations or to Black Jews who practice Judaism. Specific groups differ in belief and identity.
Are all Black Hebrew Israelites extremists?
No. Some sects have been identified as extremist, but it is inaccurate to generalize that label to the entire movement.
Explore related church traditions
Find a church near you
Hebrew Israelite groups are not churches, so they are not part of this directory.