What Do Rastafarians Believe?

Summary

This video explores Rastafarianism, an Abrahamic religion with roots in Christian teachings and influenced by figures like Marcus Garvey. It highlights key concepts such as the significance of Jah (God), the cultural importance of Ethiopia, and the ideas of Zion and Babylon. The movement gained momentum in the 1930s and was bolstered by Haile Selassie's rise to power. The video discusses the impact of Bob Marley in popularizing Rastafari and addresses the use of marijuana in religious rituals. The narrative reflects on the challenges faced by Rastafari communities, particularly after the deaths of Selassie and Marley, yet notes the ongoing presence of Rastafarians worldwide.

Takeaways

• 😀 Rastafarianism is an Abrahamic religion, drawing mostly from Christian teachings with some aspects of Judaism, focusing on a traditionalist, literal interpretation of the Bible.
• 😀 The Rastafari word for God is 'Jah', a shortened form of 'Jehovah', which is derived from Hebrew.
• 😀 Rastafarians believe black people are the chosen people of God, often viewing themselves as one of the tribes of Israel.
• 😀 Rastafarianism emphasizes living naturally and rejecting societal conformities, with followers often wearing dreadlocks and avoiding pork, as described in Leviticus.
• 😀 Marcus Garvey, a prominent Pan-Africanist, is a key influence on Rastafarianism, inspiring the belief in the empowerment and civil rights of African descendants worldwide.
• 😀 Ethiopia holds a significant place in Rastafarian beliefs, particularly after Haile Selassie became emperor in 1930, with many believing he fulfilled Marcus Garvey's prophecy of a black king delivering salvation.
• 😀 Rastafarians refer to Africa, especially Ethiopia, as Zion, their promised land, in contrast to Babylon, representing the oppressive Western world.
• 😀 Haile Selassie's coronation and his eventual defeat of Italian invaders in the 1940s solidified his position as a central figure in Rastafarian faith, believed by many to be the second coming of Christ.
• 😀 Bob Marley, influenced by Rastafari, became a global ambassador for the religion, spreading its messages through his music, such as 'Iron Lion Zion' and 'Buffalo Soldier'.
• 😀 The use of marijuana is a significant part of Rastafari rituals, seen as a tool for spiritual reflection and connection to Jah, though it is often in conflict with local laws, including in Jamaica.
• 😀 Despite challenges such as famine, political upheaval, and Haile Selassie's death in 1975, the Rastafari movement remains vibrant, with communities still present in Jamaica and the African diaspora.

Q & A

What is Rastafarianism?

Rastafarianism is one of the Abrahamic religions, primarily drawing from Christian teachings and scriptures, while also sharing certain features with Judaism.

What does 'Jah' mean in Rastafarian belief?

In Rastafarianism, 'Jah' is a shortening of 'Jehovah,' which is one of the names for God in Hebrew.

Why do Rastafarians wear dreadlocks?

Rastafarians wear dreadlocks as a symbol of their faith, reflecting a literal interpretation of Leviticus, which instructs against cutting the hair.

Who was Marcus Garvey and what was his influence on Rastafarianism?

Marcus Garvey was a Pan-Africanist leader whose teachings in the 1930s inspired the Rastafari movement, emphasizing black empowerment and the idea of repatriation to Africa.

What is the significance of Ethiopia in Rastafarian belief?

Ethiopia holds a prominent position in Rastafarianism as the 'promised land' or 'Zion,' due to its historical significance and connection to Haile Selassie, whom Rastafarians regard as a messianic figure.

What is the concept of Babylon in Rastafarianism?

In Rastafarian belief, 'Babylon' represents the oppressive Western society from which Rastafarians seek liberation and a return to Africa.

How did Haile Selassie's coronation impact Rastafarians?

Haile Selassie's coronation in 1930 was seen as a fulfillment of Marcus Garvey's prophecy, leading many Rastafarians to view him as a divine figure and the second coming of Christ.

What role does cannabis play in Rastafarian practices?

Cannabis is used in Rastafarian rituals as it is believed to enhance spiritual connection and self-reflection, though its legal status often puts Rastafarians at odds with the law.

What was the outcome of the political turmoil in Ethiopia during Haile Selassie's reign?

Haile Selassie's reign ended with a coup in 1974, leading to a period of famine and political oppression in Ethiopia, which affected the Rastafarian community's belief in his divinity.

How did Bob Marley contribute to the spread of Rastafarianism?

Bob Marley popularized Rastafarian beliefs through his music, incorporating themes of social justice, spirituality, and the struggles of black people, thereby bringing the religion to a global audience.