In the rich and often misunderstood philosophy of the Five-Percent Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earths, the terms ‘Gods,’ ‘Earths,’ and ’85ers’ hold significant meaning. Rooted in Black empowerment, self-knowledge, and cultural reclamation, this movement has influenced communities, music, and modern identity for decades. These terms are not simply labels they represent different levels of awareness, consciousness, and responsibility. Understanding them offers insight into a worldview shaped by history, spirituality, and resistance to systemic ignorance.
The Origin of the Nation of Gods and Earths
Clarence 13X and the Birth of the Five Percent
The Nation of Gods and Earths was founded in 1964 by Clarence 13X, a former member of the Nation of Islam. After leaving the NOI, Clarence began teaching a unique philosophy to youth in Harlem. He emphasized that the Black man is God and that Black people must gain knowledge of self to break free from mental bondage. This led to the formation of what came to be known as the Five-Percent Nation.
The Meaning Behind the Numbers
The Five-Percent Nation is based on the belief that the world’s population can be divided into three categories:
- 85%– The masses of people who are ignorant of the truth of themselves and the world.
- 10%– The elites who know the truth but keep it hidden to exploit the 85%.
- 5%– Those who know the truth and strive to enlighten the 85%.
This classification is central to the ideology of the Gods and Earths and sets the foundation for the roles and terms used within the community.
Who Are the Gods?
The Role of the God
In this philosophy, Black men are taught that they are the physical manifestation of God. Rather than a mystical being in the sky, God is seen as the embodiment of knowledge, wisdom, and power qualities that each man should strive to realize within himself. A ‘God’ is a man who has obtained knowledge of self, lives righteously, and teaches others the same.
Living Mathematics and Supreme Understanding
The Gods use a system called Supreme Mathematics and Supreme Alphabet to interpret reality. These tools help decode everyday experiences into lessons and guide a God’s behavior. For example, the number 1 represents knowledge, 2 represents wisdom, and 3 represents understanding an order that reflects a path to enlightenment. Gods are expected to build and elevate not only themselves but also their communities.
Who Are the Earths?
The Role of the Earth
Women in the Five-Percent Nation are referred to as Earths. Just as the Earth supports life, women are seen as nurturers, educators, and vital forces in the growth of the family and community. An Earth is a woman who supports and spreads truth, upholds cultural values, and understands her power within creation.
Knowledge, Culture, and Respect
Earths are encouraged to study and apply Supreme Mathematics and to live by the principles of discipline, education, and culture. While the ideology has been critiqued for being male-centered at times, many Earths assert their own agency and leadership in educating youth and organizing within their communities.
Understanding the 85ers
Definition of an 85er
An 85er refers to the majority of the population who are considered lost, unaware, and lacking knowledge of self. They are described as being mentally dead following mainstream culture without questioning its motives. The term is not meant as an insult but rather as a wake-up call. To the Five-Percent Nation, the 85ers are those who have been misled by false teachings, corrupted institutions, and manipulative systems of control.
The Duty of the Five Percent
The role of the 5% is to teach, uplift, and reach the 85% through education, truth-telling, and example. This responsibility is taken seriously. Gods and Earths don’t only seek self-betterment they are called to be light-bearers in a world clouded by misinformation and oppression.
Cultural Influence and Legacy
Hip-Hop and the Five Percent
The teachings of the Nation of Gods and Earths have had a profound influence on hip-hop culture. Artists like Rakim, Brand Nubian, Wu-Tang Clan, Busta Rhymes, and Nas have incorporated Five Percent ideology into their lyrics. References to Supreme Mathematics, the concept of being God, and calling women ‘Earths’ are all part of this linguistic legacy. The music became a medium to spread knowledge to audiences around the world.
Community and Youth Outreach
Beyond music, the Five Percent Nation has long been involved in education and youth mentoring. Particularly in urban environments, the teachings have offered an alternative to gangs and street life. By promoting self-awareness and discipline, the Five Percent encourages young people to see themselves as valuable, powerful, and capable of transformation.
Criticism and Controversy
Gender Roles and Interpretation
One critique often raised is the way gender roles are structured, with men as Gods and women as Earths. While many Earths find empowerment in their identity, critics argue that the language can sometimes feel limiting or patriarchal. However, interpretations vary widely across communities, and some advocate for a more inclusive, evolving understanding of the philosophy.
Misunderstanding in the Mainstream
Because the ideology uses religious terminology like GodĀ in unconventional ways, it is often misunderstood by outsiders. Some mistakenly associate it with extremism or cult behavior. In truth, most members view their system not as a religion but as a way of life a cultural lens through which to see the world more clearly.
The Ongoing Relevance of the Five Percent
Modern Adaptations and Youth Appeal
Today, the Nation of Gods and Earths continues to evolve. Digital platforms have allowed younger generations to access teachings and discuss ideas. Despite changing times, the core messages of self-mastery, mental liberation, and community upliftment remain relevant, particularly in a world filled with disinformation and cultural erasure.
Spreading Knowledge and Combating Ignorance
Whether through grassroots programs, music, or personal transformation, the mission of the 5% persists: to bring light to darkness, to awaken the mentally dead, and to build a society where truth and equality are more than just ideals. In this way, the Gods and Earths stand in stark contrast to the passive, misled 85ers, offering an alternative path for those who seek more than what is given by default.
The terms Gods, Earths, and 85ers are far more than catchy labels or underground jargon. They are pillars of a living philosophy grounded in self-knowledge, empowerment, and cultural pride. The Nation of Gods and Earths continues to challenge conventional narratives about identity, faith, and community. By understanding these roles and their deeper meanings, we gain insight into a movement that not only reshapes how people see themselves but also how they relate to the world. The ongoing mission of the Five Percent is one of truth, elevation, and unity a message that remains as important today as ever.