Rastafari, emerging in the slums of Jamaica during the 1930s, represents a powerful blend of spiritual, cultural, and political elements. The movement was ignited by the coronation of Haile Selassie I as Emperor of Ethiopia in 1930, an event seen by many Jamaicans as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. The movement’s roots lie in the socio-economic conditions of post-colonial Jamaica, where poverty, disenfranchisement, and the legacy of slavery created fertile ground for a revolutionary ideology.
By the 1940s, Rastafari had begun to take shape as a distinct movement, with Leonard Howell, often referred to as the “First Rasta,” promoting Haile Selassie as the Black Messiah. Howell’s pamphlet, The Promised Key, became a foundational text for early Rastafarians, setting out the core beliefs that would define the movement. Despite persecution from the Jamaican government, which saw Rastafari as a threat to colonial order, the movement grew, driven by its promise of spiritual and physical liberation for the African diaspora.
Rastafari mythology is not just a set of beliefs but a dynamic system that shapes the identity and practices of its adherents. It offers a counter-narrative to the Western, colonial worldview that has dominated much of global history. At its heart, Rastafari mythology seeks to reclaim African identity, presenting Africa not as a place of barbarism or backwardness, as often portrayed by colonial narratives, but as the cradle of civilization and the spiritual homeland of all people of African descent.
The mythology serves as a vehicle for resistance, not just against the physical oppression of colonialism and slavery, but against the mental and spiritual domination that continues to affect people of African descent. Through its symbols, rituals, and teachings, Rastafari mythology provides a framework for understanding the world, one that is rooted in African spirituality and values.
Core Beliefs in Rastafari Mythology
Concept of Jah
The concept of Jah is central to Rastafari belief. Unlike the distant, transcendent God of Western Christianity, Jah is believed to dwell within every individual, making the body a temple and every person a reflection of the divine. This belief in the divinity of the individual is echoed in the Rastafari greeting, “I and I,” which emphasizes the unity of the individual with God and with others.
Haile Selassie I, who was born Tafari Makonnen, is considered by Rastafarians to be the earthly incarnation of Jah. His coronation in 1930 was seen as the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, particularly the prophecy in Psalm 68:31, “Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.” Selassie’s titles, such as “King of Kings,” “Lord of Lords,” and “Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah,” further solidified his divine status in the eyes of Rastafarians.
Throughout his reign, Haile Selassie was a symbol of hope and resistance for many Africans and people of African descent. His speech to the League of Nations in 1936, following Italy’s invasion of Ethiopia, was a powerful condemnation of colonial aggression and a call for collective security—an appeal that resonated deeply with the oppressed people around the world. Selassie’s ability to maintain Ethiopia’s independence during a time when much of Africa was under colonial rule made him a living embodiment of African pride and resilience.
The Notion of Babylon
Babylon, in Rastafari mythology, is the personification of the oppressive, materialistic Western world. It represents the systems of exploitation and control that have historically oppressed people of African descent, from the transatlantic slave trade to modern-day economic exploitation and cultural domination. In the eyes of Rastafarians, Babylon is responsible for the spiritual and moral decay of society, promoting values that are antithetical to the teachings of Jah.
Babylon is not just a political or economic system; it is also a state of mind. Rastafarians believe that many people, including those in positions of power, are spiritually enslaved by Babylon, leading them to act in ways that perpetuate injustice and inequality. This belief is reflected in the concept of “mental slavery,” a term popularized by the Pan-Africanist Marcus Garvey, who warned that even after physical emancipation, people of African descent would still be mentally enslaved if they did not reclaim their cultural and spiritual identities.
The struggle against Babylon is a central theme in Rastafari thought and practice. Rastafarians see themselves as spiritual warriors engaged in a battle against the forces of Babylon. This struggle is not just about resisting external oppression, but also about overcoming the internalized values and beliefs that keep people spiritually and mentally enslaved.
Prophetic Figures and Historical Inspirations
Marcus Garvey is one of the most important figures in Rastafari mythology. Although he never identified as a Rastafarian himself, his teachings on black pride, self-reliance, and the return to Africa have had a profound influence on the movement. Garvey’s prophecy that “Look to Africa, when a black king shall be crowned, for the day of deliverance is at hand” was interpreted by early Rastafarians as a prediction of Haile Selassie’s coronation. Garvey’s ideas on Pan-Africanism and his advocacy for the repatriation of African descendants to their ancestral homeland continue to resonate within the Rastafari movement.
Leonard Howell, often considered one of the founding fathers of Rastafari, also played a significant role in shaping the movement’s beliefs. Howell’s declaration of Haile Selassie as the Black Messiah and his establishment of the first Rastafari community in Jamaica were crucial in the early spread of the movement. Despite facing persecution from the Jamaican government, Howell and his followers remained committed to their beliefs, laying the groundwork for the global spread of Rastafari.
Other figures, such as Joseph Hibbert, Archibald Dunkley, and Robert Hinds, also contributed to the early development of Rastafari thought. These early leaders helped to articulate the movement’s core beliefs, drawing on a mix of biblical interpretation, African spirituality, and resistance to colonial oppression. Their teachings have had a lasting impact on the movement, influencing generations of Rastafarians around the world.
Symbolism and Practices in Rastafari Mythology
The Significance of Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Rastafari. They are more than just a hairstyle; they are a powerful symbol of spiritual dedication and resistance to Babylon. The wearing of dreadlocks is rooted in the biblical tradition of the Nazarites, who took a vow to abstain from cutting their hair as a sign of their devotion to God. This tradition is reflected in the story of Samson, whose strength was said to be tied to his uncut hair.
For Rastafarians, dreadlocks represent the Lion of Judah, a symbol associated with Haile Selassie and the Ethiopian monarchy. The lion is seen as a powerful symbol of African strength and pride, and the wearing of dreadlocks is a way of embodying these qualities. Dreadlocks also serve as a visible marker of Rastafarian identity, distinguishing adherents from the broader society and signaling their commitment to the values of the movement.
Historically, the wearing of dreadlocks has been met with hostility and discrimination, both in Jamaica and elsewhere. Rastafarians have faced persecution for their appearance, with some being harassed, arrested, or even physically assaulted by the authorities. Despite this, dreadlocks have become a symbol of resilience and defiance, representing the refusal of Rastafarians to conform to the norms and expectations of Babylon.
The Use of Ganja
Ganja, or marijuana, plays a central role in Rastafari religious practice. It is considered a sacred herb, a gift from Jah that has the power to heal the mind and body and bring individuals closer to the divine. Rastafarians believe that ganja was used by the ancient Israelites and that its use is sanctioned by biblical texts, such as Genesis 1:29, which states, “Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth.”
The use of ganja is an integral part of Rastafari rituals, particularly in communal gatherings known as “groundations.” During these gatherings, ganja is smoked as part of a sacramental rite, with the smoke serving as a medium through which participants can connect with Jah and each other. The act of smoking ganja is seen as a way of purifying the mind and body, clearing away the distractions and impurities of Babylon and allowing for a deeper spiritual connection.
However, the use of ganja has also brought Rastafarians into conflict with the law. In Jamaica, where marijuana was illegal for much of the 20th century, Rastafarians faced arrest and imprisonment for their religious practices. Despite this, the movement has remained steadfast in its belief that ganja is a sacred herb and has continued to advocate for its decriminalization. In recent years, there has been progress on this front, with Jamaica and other countries relaxing their laws on marijuana use, partly in recognition of its cultural and religious significance to Rastafarians.
Ital Diet and Livity
The Ital diet is a cornerstone of the Rastafari way of life, grounded in the belief that what one consumes directly affects their spiritual and physical well-being. Rastafarians believe that eating natural, unprocessed foods enhances their “livity,” or life force, which is a divine energy from Jah that flows through all living beings. The Ital diet is, therefore, more than just a set of dietary restrictions; it is a spiritual practice aimed at maintaining purity and harmony with nature.
Many Rastafarians follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet, avoiding meat altogether. This practice is rooted in the belief that consuming the flesh of animals can bring about negative spiritual consequences, as it is considered impure and contrary to the natural order. Pork, in particular, is strictly avoided, as it is seen as especially unclean, a view that is reinforced by biblical references such as Leviticus 11:7-8, which declares pigs unclean and unfit for consumption.
In addition to avoiding meat, the Ital diet emphasizes the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, all of which are believed to nourish the body and soul. Rastafarians also avoid processed foods, artificial additives, and refined sugars, as these are seen as products of Babylon that contaminate the body and diminish one’s connection to Jah. Instead, they prefer foods that are organic, locally sourced, and prepared in a natural way, often using traditional methods of cooking.
The Ital diet is also linked to the broader concept of livity, which extends beyond diet to encompass a holistic approach to life. Livity includes not only the food one eats but also their lifestyle choices, social interactions, and relationship with the environment. Rastafarians strive to live in a way that is in harmony with the natural world, reflecting their respect for all living beings and their belief in the interconnectedness of life.
This holistic approach is also evident in the Rastafari emphasis on natural healing and herbal medicine. Many Rastafarians prefer to use natural remedies, such as herbal teas and plant-based treatments, to maintain their health and treat ailments. This practice is rooted in the belief that the earth provides all the necessary tools for healing and that turning to natural sources of medicine aligns with the principles of Ital living.
The Role of Mythology in Rastafari Identity and Global Impact
Afrocentric Identity and Cultural Revival
Rastafari mythology has played a pivotal role in the development of an Afrocentric identity, particularly among people of African descent who have been historically marginalized and oppressed. The movement’s emphasis on African heritage, culture, and spirituality has provided a powerful counter-narrative to the Eurocentric perspectives that have dominated global discourse for centuries.
One of the key aspects of Rastafari mythology is the reimagining of Africa as Zion, the Promised Land, and the spiritual home of the African diaspora. This contrasts sharply with the negative portrayals of Africa in Western media and education, which have often depicted the continent as a place of savagery, poverty, and backwardness. By reclaiming Africa as a place of spiritual significance and cultural pride, Rastafari has helped to restore a sense of dignity and identity to people of African descent.
This emphasis on African identity is also reflected in the movement’s symbols and practices. For example, the colors of the Ethiopian flag—red, gold, and green—are prominently featured in Rastafari clothing, jewelry, and artwork. These colors represent the blood of martyrs (red), the wealth of the land (gold), and the lush vegetation of Africa (green). They serve as a constant reminder of the movement’s connection to Africa and its struggle against oppression.
The Rastafari movement has also contributed to the global spread of Pan-Africanism, an ideology that advocates for the unity and solidarity of all people of African descent. Pan-Africanism, which was championed by figures like Marcus Garvey, has been a major influence on Rastafari thought and has inspired movements for civil rights, independence, and social justice across the African diaspora. The belief in the eventual repatriation of the African diaspora to Africa is a central tenet of Rastafari, reflecting the movement’s commitment to the idea of a global African community.
Influence on Global Culture and Music
Perhaps the most visible impact of Rastafari on global culture has been through music, particularly reggae. Reggae emerged in Jamaica in the 1960s and quickly became the voice of the Rastafari movement, spreading its messages of peace, love, and resistance to a global audience. Artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer used their music to articulate Rastafari beliefs, making the movement’s ideals accessible to millions of people around the world.
Bob Marley, in particular, became an international icon for Rastafari, using his music to convey the movement’s core messages. Songs like “Redemption Song,” “Exodus,” and “One Love” resonate with themes of liberation, spiritual awakening, and unity. Marley’s lyrics often draw directly from Rastafari mythology, invoking the concepts of Jah, Babylon, and Zion. His music has not only popularized Rastafari but also brought attention to issues of social justice, human rights, and the struggle against oppression.
Reggae music has also served as a vehicle for political and social activism. In the 1970s and 1980s, reggae became associated with movements for liberation and resistance around the world, from the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa to the civil rights movement in the United States. The music’s message of defiance against Babylon and its call for unity among the oppressed struck a chord with people across different cultures and societies.
Beyond music, Rastafari has influenced fashion, language, and art. The dreadlocks hairstyle, once seen as a symbol of defiance, has been embraced globally as a fashion statement and a symbol of cultural pride. Rastafari slang and expressions, such as “I and I” and “irie,” have entered the global lexicon, reflecting the movement’s impact on language and communication. Rastafari-inspired art, often featuring images of Haile Selassie, lions, and the colors of the Ethiopian flag, has become a popular form of expression around the world.
Contemporary Challenges and Adaptations
As Rastafari has spread globally, it has faced various challenges, particularly as it has encountered different cultural contexts and the pressures of modernity. The movement’s decentralized nature, with no formal church or hierarchy, has led to a diversity of interpretations and practices. This diversity has been both a strength and a challenge, allowing Rastafari to adapt to different environments while also leading to disagreements and divisions within the movement.
One of the challenges facing Rastafari today is the need to maintain its core beliefs and practices in the face of globalization and commercialization. As elements of Rastafari culture, such as reggae music and dreadlocks, have become popular in mainstream culture, there is a risk that the deeper spiritual and political messages of the movement may be diluted or lost. This has led to debates within the Rastafari community about how to preserve the movement’s authenticity while engaging with the wider world.
Another challenge is the decline in the number of active Rastafarians, particularly after the deaths of key figures like Haile Selassie and Bob Marley. In Jamaica, where the movement originated, the Rastafari community has faced economic and social pressures, including unemployment, discrimination, and violence. Despite these challenges, Rastafari remains a vibrant and resilient movement, with new generations of followers continuing to find meaning in its teachings.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Rastafari among people from diverse backgrounds, including non-Africans. This has led to further diversification of the movement, with some Rastafarians embracing a more inclusive, global approach, while others emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong connection to African identity and heritage.
Rastafari mythology is a rich and complex system of beliefs that has shaped the lives of its followers and influenced global culture in profound ways. From its core beliefs in Jah and the rejection of Babylon to its symbolic practices like dreadlocks and the Ital diet, Rastafari offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and resistance. This mythology has provided a foundation for the movement’s identity, empowering its followers to reclaim their African heritage and resist the forces of Western oppression.
Rastafari’s impact extends far beyond its religious roots, influencing music, fashion, language, and social movements around the world. The movement’s emphasis on African identity and its critique of Western materialism and oppression have resonated with people of all backgrounds, making Rastafari a global phenomenon. Despite the challenges it faces, Rastafari continues to inspire new generations, offering a vision of spiritual and cultural liberation that remains relevant in today’s world.
Looking ahead, Rastafari mythology will likely continue to evolve as it responds to the challenges of the modern world. The movement’s ability to adapt to different cultural contexts and its emphasis on spirituality and resistance to oppression have helped it to endure for nearly a century. As Rastafari continues to spread and diversify, its mythology will remain a crucial element in shaping the movement’s identity and guiding its followers.
The future of Rastafari will depend on its ability to balance tradition with innovation, preserving its core beliefs and practices while engaging with the broader global community. As the movement faces new challenges, including the pressures of globalization and the need to address social and economic issues within its own communities, this American mythology will continue to provide a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration for its followers.
