Rastafari: Beliefs and Practices — CSEC Religious Education

Rastafari is a religious and cultural movement that began in Jamaica in the 1930s, with strong Caribbean and African roots.

Origins and beliefs

Rastafari developed in Jamaica, influenced by Marcus Garvey's message of Black pride and return to Africa.
Many Rastafari revere the former Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie I (Ras Tafari), as a divine figure.
God is referred to as Jah.
Ethiopia/Africa is seen as Zion (the spiritual homeland), while Babylon represents corrupt, oppressive society.
Rastafari interpret the Bible, especially passages about Ethiopia and liberation.

Dreadlocks (locks) — uncut hair, linked to the Nazarite vow.
Ital food — a natural, often vegetarian, unprocessed diet.
Reasoning sessions and the use of drumming and chanting (Nyabinghi) in worship.
An emphasis on living naturally and on African identity and liberation.

Rastafari spread worldwide, especially through reggae music (e.g. Bob Marley), carrying its messages of justice, peace and African pride.

Rastafari began in Jamaica in the 1930s, influenced by Marcus Garvey.
God = Jah; Haile Selassie I is revered as divine.
Zion = spiritual homeland (Africa/Ethiopia); Babylon = oppressive society.
Practices: dreadlocks and Ital food.