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The Rastafari Movement
The Rastafari movement is a spiritual ideology. Its main origins were in Jamaica and Ethiopia. Rastafari recognizes elements of Christianity and Judaism, although they have their own sets of beliefs as well. The use of marijuana for spiritual reasons is also accepted. Followers of the Rastafari movement often consider their beliefs less of a religion, and more of a way of life.
232 Questions
Why is ital important to rastafarians?
Ital is important to Rastafarians as it reflects their belief in living a natural and harmonious lifestyle. The term "ital" is derived from the word "vital," emphasizing the consumption of pure, unprocessed foods that are free from additives and chemicals. This diet is seen as a way to maintain physical health, spiritual well-being, and a connection to the earth. Additionally, ital food often aligns with Rastafarian principles of sustainability and respect for all living things.
Is there a statistic on rastafarians?
There is limited statistical data specifically on Rastafarians, as they are often considered more of a cultural and religious movement than a formal demographic group. However, estimates suggest that there are several million Rastafarians worldwide, with a significant concentration in Jamaica. Surveys may provide insights into their beliefs and practices, but comprehensive statistics on their numbers are scarce and vary by source. Overall, Rastafarianism is more about cultural identity and spirituality rather than being strictly quantifiable.
What percentage of Jamaicans are rastafarians?
Estimates suggest that around 5-10% of Jamaicans identify as Rastafarians. However, the exact percentage can vary due to the fluid nature of religious identity and the fact that many individuals may not formally identify as Rastafarians despite sharing similar beliefs. Rastafarianism is an important cultural and spiritual movement in Jamaica, influencing various aspects of society.
How do rastafarian's worship god?
Rastafarians worship God, whom they often refer to as Jah, through a combination of prayer, music, and communal gatherings. Central to their worship are reggae music and the sound of drumming, which express their spiritual beliefs and cultural identity. They often read and interpret the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, viewing it through a lens that emphasizes themes of liberation and justice. Ras Tafari (Haile Selassie I) is revered as a divine figure, symbolizing the connection between God and the African diaspora.
Rastafari emerged in the 1930s in Jamaica as a religious and social movement, primarily among Afro-Jamaicans. It was created in response to the historical oppression and marginalization of black people, drawing inspiration from the coronation of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I, who was seen as a symbol of African pride and resistance against colonialism. The movement emphasizes themes of repatriation to Africa, social justice, and spiritual connection to African heritage. Additionally, it sought to empower individuals by promoting a sense of identity and dignity in the face of systemic racism.
What are the factors of the rastafari religion?
The Rastafari religion is characterized by several key factors, including a strong connection to African heritage, reverence for Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, and the belief in the spiritual and political liberation of people of African descent. It emphasizes the importance of community, the use of marijuana as a sacramental herb, and a lifestyle that promotes natural living and consciousness. Additionally, Rastas often reject materialism and the oppressive structures of society, instead advocating for social justice and equality.
What do rastafarians believe about domestic violence?
Rastafarians generally uphold strong values of love, respect, and harmony within relationships, which extends to their views on domestic violence. They emphasize the importance of treating women with dignity and viewing them as equal partners in society. Domestic violence is often seen as contrary to the teachings of Rastafari, which promote peace and unity. Consequently, many Rastafarians advocate for non-violence and the resolution of conflicts through dialogue and understanding.
Yes, Rastafarians value a deep connection to their African heritage, emphasizing the importance of spiritual and cultural identity. They often advocate for social justice, equality, and the repatriation of people of African descent to Africa. Additionally, Rastafarianism promotes a lifestyle that includes respect for nature, communal living, and the use of cannabis as a sacrament for spiritual enlightenment.
Can rastafarians be fired for testing positive for marijuana?
Yes, Rastafarians can be fired for testing positive for marijuana, as most employers have the right to enforce drug-free workplace policies regardless of an employee's religious beliefs. While Rastafarianism incorporates the use of marijuana as a sacrament, legal protections for religious practices vary by jurisdiction. In some places, individuals may seek exemptions based on religious grounds, but success in such cases is not guaranteed. Ultimately, it depends on local laws and the employer's policies.
What is the purpose of the rastafarian flag?
The Rastafarian flag features three horizontal stripes colored red, yellow, and green, symbolizing the movement's core values and heritage. The red represents the blood of those who suffered, yellow signifies the wealth of the land, and green stands for the abundance of vegetation. Together, these colors reflect the Rastafarian beliefs in unity, resilience, and a connection to Africa. The flag serves as a symbol of pride and identity for Rastafarians worldwide.
How do you say grandma in rastafarian?
In Rastafarian culture, "grandma" is often referred to as "granny" or "gramma." The term may vary slightly based on regional dialects or personal preferences, but these are commonly understood ways to address one's grandmother within the Rastafarian community.
Why do rastafarians not eat shellfish?
Rastafarians often avoid shellfish due to dietary guidelines rooted in the biblical book of Leviticus, which outlines clean and unclean foods. Shellfish, being considered scavengers or bottom feeders, do not align with the Rastafarian emphasis on natural, wholesome foods. Additionally, the Rastafarian diet promotes a healthy lifestyle and spiritual connection, which shellfish are perceived to disrupt. This dietary practice reflects broader principles of purity and respect for the body in Rastafarian beliefs.
What does the lion on the rastafarian flag mean?
The lion on the Rastafarian flag represents the Lion of Judah, a symbol of strength, courage, and the biblical lineage of Haile Selassie I, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, who is revered by Rastafarians as a messianic figure. It embodies the movement's connection to African heritage, resistance against oppression, and the belief in the eventual liberation of African people. The lion also signifies the pride and resilience of the Rastafarian identity.
Do rastafarians cut their nails?
Rastafarians typically believe in maintaining a natural lifestyle, which often includes not cutting their hair or nails as a form of spiritual expression and connection to their faith. However, practices can vary among individuals and communities within the Rastafarian movement. While some may choose not to cut their nails as part of their religious beliefs, others may not adhere strictly to this practice. Ultimately, it depends on personal interpretation and commitment to Rastafarian principles.
What is the lifespan of a rastafarian?
Well honey, a Rastafarian is a follower of Rastafarianism, not a species with a set lifespan. People who follow this faith can live just as long as anyone else, depending on their health, lifestyle, and genes. So, there's no expiration date on being a Rastafarian, it's more about the journey than the destination.
Did Haile Selassie accept being considered God by the Rastafarians?
The answer to your question that is most easily researched comes from newspaper accounts at the time of the arrival of H.I.M. on the island of Jamaica - Jamaican & other Nations papers covered H.I.M. movements & activities extensively after speeches to Org. of African Unity & League of Nations - Black American newspapers in some cities covered H.I.M. & Garvey - my father related being called to gather around the short -wave radio by his father to listen to the broadcast of the coronation of H.I.M. - the crowning of a King/Emperor in Africa was considered by many bible-reading lay/regular Black folk to be the fulfillment of biblical prophecy according to my maternal Grandmother.
Bottom Line: Research the media ( also photo archives) of the time.
Short answer: H.I.M. was surprised, (refused to leave airplane at first because of surrounding crowd), somewhat shocked and rather vocal about NOT being seen as divine or Divinity.
As a former Rastafarian, I too believed Haile Selassie to be Messiah. Upon further research and a fervent desire for truth (even if it was different from what I already believed), I came across a radio interview in a song by Christafari. Here in this interview Haile Selassie plainly denies being anything other than a man. He himself worshiped Jesus Christ and fellowshipped with very prominent Christians. While in Exile, he stayed in Wales with Reese Howells-a bible believing Christian known for his many miraculously answered prayers( http://www.amazon.com/Rees-Howells-Intercessor-Norman-Grubb/dp/0875081886 ) Haile Selassie was a good man in many respects. He was a great leader and a strong Christian. He loved the bible and believed it to be flawless. He belonged to the Ethiopic Coptic church (that Bob Marley was baptized into 3 weeks before his death). Rastafarianism only makes sense if you are high, indoctrinated, and then kept high. There are so many holes in the religion itself, I'm surprised to find as few books on the subject. Matthew 24:23-28 makes it very clear to not believe anyone if they ever tell you that Jesus has returned. Jesus with His own mouth said he would come in such a way that everyone on earth would not only know, but that the earth would immediately be overrun with ALL of the angels. (the bible says there are more angels than the stars in the sky. There are enough stars in the sky to have everyone who ever lived own 1.3 TRILLION stars!) Believe the Messiah when He speaks. If Haile Selassie was Christ, then He lied in the book he sees as perfect. Haile Selassie was Not Jesus Christ. He was a great man and a passionate leader. Why isn't this enough?
That answer is not true. Haile Selassie I never once said he was not God.
Here is a quote from the book Reggae Routes: The Story of Jamaican Music By Kevin O'Brien
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Former Senator and Gleaner editor, Hector Wynter, tells of asking him, during his visit to Jamaica in 1966, when he was going to tell Rastafarians he was not God. 'Who am I to disturb their belief?' replied the emperor.
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And in regard to the interview where the man above says "he plainly denied", there was no denial, he didn't once in his answer say that he is not God.
Selassie I is One with Jah, Selassie I is Jah.
A lot of people use the interview answer below to say that Selassie is not Jah. But it is just misinterpretation of his words.
Bill McNeil: "there are millions of Christians throughout the world, your Imperial Majesty, who regard you as the reincarnation of Jesus Christ."
Selassie I: "I had heard of that idea. I also met certain Rastafarians. I told them clearly that 'I am a Man,' that 'I am mortal,'(I have heard that an Ethiopian that listened to this interview said that Selassie I never said mortal) and that 'I would be replaced by the oncoming generation, and that they should never make a mistake in assuming or pretending that the human being is emanated from a deity.'"
When I look at RasTafarI's answer, this is how I understand it. He showed the people that he is a Man, and will be replaced by the oncoming generation. Selassie I was born of mother and father, just like I and I, so he didn't flow out (emanate) of God, any more than I and I. Both I and I and Selassie I come from the lineage of Adam and Eve.
Notice that he said that the humans we see have not emanated from God, but he never said that a human cannot be God. I and I can be God, but only by being One with Jah. I and I can't be God separate from Jah, as two gods. But I and I can only join with Jah, to be One with HIM, as One God.
Selassie lives by the example of Christ, so he became One with Jah by his destiny and livity. And all of I and I can also be One with Jah, by I and I livity. Selassie I said that "we should never make a mistake in assuming or pretending that the human being is emanated from a deity". This statement shows I that no man, not even the Son of Man Christ, emanated (or flowed out) from God. Christ was born of his mother Mary, and by his destiny and livity became One with Jah.
Jah first sent Christ born from a virgin, to show I and I the way to live. But afterwards, people made the excuse that they can't live without sin, or be One with Jah. They made the excuse that because Christ was born differently, that it was possible for him to live this way, but not for us, because we are born from mother and father.
So Jah sent RasTafarI to I and I, to show I and I the way to live. Haile Selassie I was born of mother and father, just like I and I, so we no longer have the excuse that we can't live without sin and be One with Jah. If Selassie I can be born like I and I, and still live without sin and be One with Jah, then I and I can do the same.
So I and I should know that it is not about I and I coming out of God to be One with Jah. But it is about I and I going to God to be One with Jah. And I and I go to God by living in His way and listening to His instruction and joining ourselves with the Most High.
Jah RasTafarI is One with Jah, and like I already said about One. One is One in completeness, no separation, and no parts. And I and I are supposed to be One with Jah also, this is the way to reach Zion, because no sin shall not enter in.
An incarnation of God
How did the rastafarian religion come to south Africa?
The first slaves imported by the Dutch were brought from Batavia, the Eastern empire of the Dutch which included today's Indonesia, Bali and even Malacca in Malaysia. The majority of these people were followers of Islam. Their descendants are know today as the "Cape Malays".
Why do Rastafarian wear red yellow and green?
Red symbolises the blood of the martyr's yellow/gold symbolises the wealth of the land and green symbolises nature. This is referring to Zion. Rastas believe that they should return to visit their homeland in Africa (Ethiopia.) The Rastafarian's flag is the same as the Ethiopian flag but with a lion on it.
Who is one outstanding Rastafarian other than Bob Marley?
Peter Tosh was one, even though he was Bob Marley & The Wailers too..
How did rastafarianism got started?
It is claimed that in the early 1900's, Marcus Garvey prophesied that a black king would come to Africa, and that he could be the Messiah. Soon after Haile Selassie became a King in Ethiopia. The Jamaican slaves believed he was the second coming of Jesus/Jah, hence the start of the Movement. Although Haile Selassie never said or claimed to be the Messiah.
