NATION OF YAHWEH

The Nation of Yahweh operated as a murderous religious cult masquerading as a Black empowerment organization, combining apocalyptic theology with systematic violence against perceived enemies during its height in the 1980s.

Founded in 1979 by Hulon Mitchell Jr., who renamed himself Yahweh ben Yahweh (Hebrew for “God, son of God”), the organization initially attracted followers through community services and Black pride messaging in Miami’s Liberty City neighborhood. Mitchell proclaimed himself the son of God and taught that Black people were the true biblical Israelites, while white people were devils destined for destruction.

The group established communal properties and businesses while demanding absolute devotion to Mitchell’s teachings. Members surrendered personal possessions, adopted Hebrew names, and lived according to strict dietary and behavioral codes. The organization’s public face emphasized economic self-sufficiency and racial pride, concealing increasingly violent internal practices.

By the mid-1980s, Mitchell had instituted a policy requiring prospective members of his inner circle to kill a “white devil” and present severed ears as proof of their commitment. Between 1986 and 1991, the group committed at least fourteen murders across several states, with victims including white people, Black people considered traitors, and former members attempting to leave the organization.

Law enforcement investigations intensified following reports of violence and financial irregularities. In 1990, federal authorities raided Nation of Yahweh properties and arrested Mitchell and fifteen followers on racketeering and conspiracy charges. Evidence presented at trial included testimony from former members describing ritual killings and a cache of severed human ears discovered in Mitchell’s residence.

Mitchell received an 18-year federal sentence in 1992, while several followers received life terms for murder. The organization collapsed following his conviction, with remaining members dispersing or joining splinter groups. Mitchell died in prison in 2007, though some adherents continue venerating his memory and teachings through small successor organizations.