What is the Rastafarian Religion?

Summary

Rastafari, a religion born in Jamaica in the 1930s, is centered around the belief that Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia, is the second coming of Christ. Combining Christian and Ethiopian traditions, Rastafarians reject materialism and oppression, seeing Ethiopia as a spiritual homeland. The religion emphasizes repatriation to Ethiopia, spiritual purity, and the use of marijuana as a sacrament. Dreadlocks symbolize a rejection of Babylonian culture. While reggae music, especially by Bob Marley, helped spread Rastafari worldwide, its followers are found in diverse global communities. The faith is deeply rooted in Afrocentric identity and a distinct interpretation of Christian teachings.

Takeaways

• 😀 Rastafari is a young religion that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s, focused on the coronation of Haile Selassie I as the Emperor of Ethiopia.
• 😀 Rastafarians believe Haile Selassie is the second coming of Christ and a 225th-generation descendant of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
• 😀 The term 'Rastafarianism' is considered offensive; followers prefer the term 'Rastafari,' which comes from the combination of 'Ras' (a noble title) and 'Tafari' (Haile Selassie's pre-coronation name).
• 😀 The religion has roots in Ethiopian Christianity, specifically the Coptic Church, which branched out from early Christian traditions in the 5th century.
• 😀 Rastafarians believe in Jah, a God that manifests in three forms: God the Father, the Son (Jesus), and Haile Selassie himself.
• 😀 Followers see Ethiopia as 'Zion,' the birthplace of humanity, and believe in repatriation to Ethiopia, either physically or spiritually.
• 😀 Cannabis, or 'ganja,' plays a significant role in Rastafari practice, viewed as a sacramental herb mentioned in the Bible’s Book of Revelation.
• 😀 While the use of marijuana is common in Rastafari culture, it is not a requirement for practice. It is used in 'reasoning ceremonies' to help cleanse the heart.
• 😀 The religion has three main groups or 'mansions': the Twelve Tribes of Israel, Nyahbinghi, and Bobo Ashanti, each with distinct practices and beliefs.
• 😀 Rastafarians often avoid materialism and sensory pleasures, which they associate with 'Babylon,' a term used to refer to oppressive or corrupt forces, including colonialism and Western society.
• 😀 Music, especially reggae, is a key element in spreading Rastafari beliefs, with Bob Marley being the most famous ambassador of the religion worldwide.

Q & A

What is the origin of the Rastafari religion?

Rastafari originated in Jamaica in the 1930s, around the coronation of Haile Selassie I as the emperor of Ethiopia.

Why do Rastafarians consider Haile Selassie I to be significant?

Rastafarians believe Haile Selassie I is the second coming of Christ, a descendant of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, and the key figure in their faith.

What does the term 'Rastafarianism' refer to, and why is it considered offensive?

The term 'Rastafarianism' refers to the belief system, but it is offensive to Rastafarians as they do not like any 'isms.' The name comes from combining 'Ras' (a title in Ethiopian nobility) and 'Tafari' (Haile Selassie’s pre-coronation name).

How do Rastafarians view the Bible?

Rastafarians believe in God (Jah) and Jesus, but they think the Bible has been corrupted over time. They practice a version of Christianity that reflects their unique beliefs.

What is the significance of Ethiopia for Rastafarians?

Ethiopia is viewed as the birthplace of humanity and is referred to as Zion. It is a symbol of spiritual and physical repatriation for Rastafarians, who aim to reconnect with their roots.

How do Rastafarians view marijuana?

Rastafarians see marijuana as a sacramental herb, referencing its mention in the Bible as a healing plant. Smoking it is seen as a spiritual practice, but it is not required for all Rastafarians.

What are the 'Mansions' of Rastafari?

The 'Mansions' refer to three major branches of Rastafari: the Twelve Tribes of Israel, Nyahbinghi, and Bobo Ashanti. Each has its unique practices and beliefs but remains part of the broader Rastafarian movement.

Why do Rastafarians grow dreadlocks?

Rastafarians grow dreadlocks as a spiritual practice, in accordance with Levitical laws. The length of the dreadlocks symbolizes wisdom and age, and combs, scissors, and razors are considered tools of 'Babylon' (a term they use for oppressive systems).

What role does music play in Rastafari?

Music, particularly reggae, plays a major role in Rastafari. It is used for ceremonies and is a significant part of sharing their beliefs, with artists like Bob Marley helping to spread the faith globally.

How many Rastafarians are there in the world, and where are they found?

There are between 22,000 and 100,000 Rastafarians, primarily in Jamaica, but also in countries like Botswana, Canada, South Africa, the UK, Japan, and the United States.