4 | The Book of Eli

This episode of Soul of Islam Radio delves into the 2010 film The Book of Eli, exploring its spiritual themes and deep symbolic messages. Hosts Ahmad Sakaamini and Ihsan Alexander Torabi analyze the movie’s portrayal of faith, divine guidance, and the dual nature of religion as both a force for liberation and control.

Eli, played by Denzel Washington, is a lone traveler navigating a post-apocalyptic world, carrying the last known copy of the Bible. As he journeys westward, pursued by a ruthless warlord who seeks the book for power, Eli’s unwavering faith and inner conviction guide him through countless trials. The hosts highlight the significance of his name, which in various languages means “ascent” or “elevation,” aligning with his role as a spiritual warrior on a sacred mission.

A central theme in the discussion is how religion has been used throughout history—both to elevate and to manipulate humanity. Ihsan points out that while some exploit faith for power, true spirituality is about selflessness, humility, and inner transformation. Eli’s character embodies this, demonstrating unwavering belief, discipline, and submission to a higher will. His blindness is a powerful metaphor, symbolizing his reliance on inner sight rather than physical perception. He “walks by faith, not by sight,” reflecting the idea that true guidance comes from within.

The episode also touches on the symbolic journey from east to west. The hosts discuss how spirituality has historically moved westward, with Islam and other traditions finding renewed depth and sincerity in the modern Western world. They draw parallels between Eli’s journey and the spread of Islam, as well as the spiritual struggle faced by individuals striving to maintain faith in materialistic societies.

Another key takeaway is the concept of divine protection. Despite overwhelming odds, Eli is shielded, reinforcing the idea that those who truly surrender to the divine are supported in unseen ways. The discussion ties this to the Islamic tradition of awliya—those who are so connected to God that they operate beyond normal human limitations.

In the film’s conclusion, the warlord Carnegie finally obtains the book, only to discover that it is written in Braille—useless to him. This moment powerfully illustrates that sacred knowledge is only accessible to those with the right perception. True wisdom, as the hosts emphasize, is not in the possession of religious texts but in living their message. Eli himself becomes the book, just as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was described as the “walking Quran.”

In closing, the hosts reflect on how spirituality requires discipline, stillness, and an openness to divine guidance. They encourage listeners to seek inner stillness, embrace faith as a transformative force, and recognize that the true essence of religion lies in selfless service to others. The conversation leaves listeners with a compelling message: faith is not about possession or control but about embodying divine wisdom in everyday life.