Rastafari

The Rastafari movement started in the early 1930's mixing JudeoChristianity and cultural elements of Jamaica. It's not a 'religion'
in itself per se but more of a movement or way of life. The Name
'Ras Tafari' is the name given to Haile Selassie a prophet for the
incarnation (Jesus) of God, named Jah. As thus, he is often
referred to as 'Jah Ras Tafari' or 'Jah Tafari'. Hailie Selassie I, was
a regent in Ethiopia from 1916 - 1930, and Emperor from 1930 1974. His claims of direct ancestry to King Solomon and Queen
of Sheeba of the Bible, as well as his rights to the throne traced
back to a 13th century dynasty are popular notions among
devotees. His royal legacy and Biblical ties parted the way for the
modern day messiah. When he died in 1975, people were so
devoted to the idea of him as a physical manifestation of God (by
way of Jesus) that they believed his death was a hoax.
Rastafarianism often rejects societal norms attributed to the 'West',
and there doesn't seem to be a universal body of what is accepted
or rejected in terms of 'society'. But there are some generalized
ideas which are taught using the texts of Marcus Garvey. It really differs from Rasta to Rasta. While most
people are aware of the spiritual premise for the use of weed (aka cannabis), there is so much more to
Rastafari.
Much of Rastafarian ideology involves several socio-political movements, and many follow teachings of
Marcus Garvey, who is regarded as a prophet. The Rastafari Movement really took off with the exposure
through the music of Bob Marley, but many just took it on as a pop-cultural element.
This is the flag of Ethiopia.
Red, gold and green were adopted by
many African nations and the colors are
considered to be pan-African. The Lion
represents the 'Lion of Judah', and Jesus
Christ in the body of Selassie. Selassie
is by way of Jesus - Jah. Red stands for
the triumphant church of the Rastas as
well as the blood of the martyrs in the
black struggle for liberation. Gold
represents the wealth of their African
homeland and green symbolizes
Ethiopia's beauty and lush vegetation.
Black is often also included,
representing the color of the Africans.
The Lion of Judah, which represents Haile Selassie as the King of Kings, Africa, and strength.

Rastafari Dreadlocks
The hair is considered to be sacred, a living devotion. Growing and care of the dread-locks is a ritual in
itself. When a loved one dies, the dreads are cut off and thrown into the grave, or buried later at the grave
site. I met this man at the beach once and he had the most beautiful dreads I had ever seen, they were clean
and well kept. I reached up to touch them and he backed off - alerting me that if I had touched them, he
would have to cut them off. They would be considered 'unclean'. The person I was with thought it was
some sort of racial thing, and commented that because a 'white person' touched them they would be
considered 'dirty'. The man said it was true in some regard, but it was more so about an uninvited touch, by
any person. I commented that he felt freely to touch my hair uninvited; he said that if I had dreads he
would not have done so. It was an interesting conversation, at any rate, and it compelled me to research it
further. The dreadlocks are a living vow, and a daily practice.

This was taken from a Rastafarian article I kept:

Dreadlocks and Rastafari
"Rastafarians grow their hair into dreadlocks because it is a part of the Nazarite Vow.
(Also their dietary rules are part of the law) All Rastafarians take this vow and claim it is
commanded by the Bible (Leviticus 21:5 "They shall not make baldness upon their head,
neither shall they shave off the corner of their beard nor make any cuttings in their
flesh").
Samson is believed to be a Nazarite with dreadlocks. Many Rastafarians believe that like
Samson, their hair is their strength and also their weakness if it is cut off. The belief in
the weakness of cutting of the dreadlocks was used as a way to intimidate Rastafarians in
Jamaica in the past, as they would be arrested and their hair cut off. This was one of the
reasons many of the early Rastafarians moved to isolated areas (bush) of the island.
To many Rastafarians, dreadlocks also symbolize the mane (locks) of the lion in the Lion
of Judah, which is one of titles given to all Ethiopian Kings. Emperor Haile Selassie was
also very fond of lions and had them as pets around his palace. The lion is also seen as
an animal that is gentle but powerful when provoked. He is the "King" of the jungle."
Source: Jamaican Travel Guide, Jamaica.com

What Rastafari believe and practice

If you ask a Rastafarian what their religion is, they will say that it is Rastafarianism, even if the Rastafari
movement was not intended to be a religion. More directly, they will refer to it as a form of JudeoChristianity. Through many of the conversations I have had, coupled with what I have read, I concluded
that most (not all) reject the power of Rome. Some have a particular rejection attributed to the Roman
invasion of Ethiopia. They believe they are practicing the purest form of Christianity, without Babylonian
or Roman influence. Many Rastafari draw from Ancient Egypt, which is why you will see a lot of
Egyptian symbolism, and/or an aesthetic. The differences between 'West' vs. Jamaican, vary but one of
particular interest is that both seem to consider the daily life in the place they reside to be a sort of
purgatory. Their spirit is enslaved, but will be released in death at which time they will return to the
homeland - Ethiopia. They do no believe in an afterlife, but when returning to Africa, are immortal. They
believe in ever-living.
There are vows, religious devotion, and daily practice. What I found most fascinating, was the Rasta
concepts of the devil and hell.

The devil is actually the god of the White man, and Babylon - is hell. Any reference to the devil or hell,
speaks of the control of the god of the white man, and corruption of Babylon.
Jah, represents love and peace while GOD of the white man represents corruption, death, destruction and
oppression of man created by the peaceful God Jah. Man's nature, in total - is the design of Jah.
Rastafarianism cherry picks Biblical doctrine; however the role of women remains subordinate to men.
The tone of women in Rastafarianism is evolving in a more liberated society; however this varies from
Rasta to Rasta and Jamaica to the 'West'.
Since there is no after-life, there is no literal Hell but the soul will remain enslaved in the physical body due
to the corruption of Babylon. A Rasta should follow the Piby, and teachings of Garvey in order to keep
both his mind and body pure. Ascension to Mount Zion will be achieved by living pure, and keep the vow
sacred.
The main text in which they draw from is called 'The Black Man's Bible', The Holy Piby.

Mentions of the devil in the Piby:

Pg. 29

"But he that is contented in poverty and weakness shall be weaker and poorer, a foot stool of the nations;
for he represents the devil, in him there is no God.
Pg. 30
"The Lord Spake saying, "I will march with the Athlyians, I will pilot them, and stear them. I will recharge
them and I, through their Shepherd, shall command them. Verily, there shall be no halting until they have
conquered the Devil, banished His Hell and reconstruct the earth upon my righteous and clean principles. "
"And the Lord continued, "I shall bring to an end the oppressors of Ham. I shall tear down the walls which
I have permitted to hold Ethiopia in bondage, that she may know the devil and his unrighteousness. "
Pg. 35
"Consequently the victims of the devil eat the fruit of the tree they have sown and therefore live in disgrace
among men. Woe be unto the spirit of him that passeth from this hell. He shall be lowered into eternal hell
where peace and happiness are unknown. He that is of the devil shall be segregated from the children of
God; but he that is of God weareth the badge of the master, and the doors of heaven shall be opened unto
him. "
Pg. 36
"Then Athlyi reached down and lifted him up saying, "Arise and stand above the devil and his hell. Thy
faith in me shall bear thee up, but he that is weak in faith shall fall through his faith. "For I am not of
myself but of God, the Father, who is in me. He that gives himself up to me wholeheartedly, I shall nurse
him at my breast and he shall be strong."
"There shall be no devil to conquer him, neither shall there be any hell to hold him; for they that are of me,
shall help him that is in me. They that helpeth not their brother in me are not of me; likewise he who is not
in harmony with the Law of this gospel is not of me."

Pg. 37
"Go ye out upon the earth, beneath the earth, upon the waters, beneath the waters and upon the trees Gather
in the blessings of God and develop them in me that ye prove yourself worthy of compensation. For
weakness and poverty is of the devil but richness and power is of God."
Pg. 39
"Go ye out upon the earth, beneath the earth, upon the waters, beneath the waters and upon the trees Gather
in the blessings of God and develop them in me that ye prove yourself worthy of compensation. For
weakness and poverty is of the devil but richness and power is of God."
Pg. 47
"Verily, Verily, I say unto you, poverty is of the devil but it is better that ye choose to be poor than to live
in the richness of the richest with a woman whose heart is contrary to thine.The deeds of a contrary couple
are destructive and their destiny is Hell everlasting."
Pg. 48
"Thou giveth the fat of thy life to the devil. Now that thou art drained and can no longer stand, ye cometh to
God with your bones. " "But I shall not accept them, " saith the Lord, "for I am God who giveth thee to eat
and to drink. I am he who supplies the necessities of life. Shall my reward be that ye dump your garbage on
me."
"He that passeth away in me shall dwell with my saints in glory, " saith the Lord. "But the spirit of the body
of him that passeth away in the devil shall not enter my fold, but shall dwell in everlasting torment. "
Pg. 49
"And Athlyi spake saying, "It shall come to pass that the devil will make hollow ground in the pathway of
the Athlyians, but they shall march upon him with the Holy Piby and he shall step back and fall into his
own ditch."
"Verily I say unto you, if a hay stack can stop a blazing fire then shall the workers of the devil impede the
advancing Athlyians whose development has no boundary but the mocker shall perish."
You should read the entire passages; I've only quoted those which mention the devil by name, to give
present context.

Link to The Holy Piby:

http://www.sacred-texts.com/afr/piby/index.htm

This is also where 'Black Supremacy' is born. Some groups are more extreme than others, and often fall
subject to pro-black, anti-white ideologies. Rastafarianism has had quite a few reconstructions and revivals
over the years. Rastafarian beliefs and practices became more secular in the 80's, and because the Rasta was
became more of a trendy aesthetic, this paved the way for women to be more outspoken. Traditionally,
women were forbidden to play a more important role, and excluded from rituals. Rather than be
subservient to males they have become more defiant. This doesn't always sit well, especially in Jamaica,
and with sects that maintain the Traditional form of Rastafari.
While it's still rather chaotic and unorganized, even in Jamaica - there are groups which see the influence of
Babylon on women, and warn them of the enslavement of the spirit, which will not be granted ascension to
Mount Zion.

In more recent years, post-1980's, The Black Man's Bible, is not always viewed with so much as a focus on
a person's skin color, but rather the origins of man, and his home. Mother Africa. Most Rastafarians will
tell you that this theology is for all, and is not limited to Black peoples.
This is where Marcus Garvey comes in. He is considered a hero
of Jamaica, and prophet to Rastas. Garvey was a journalist,
entrepreneur, publisher, and activist.
There is an official website which maintains his writings and
ideologies here:
http://marcusgarvey.com/
Another work which is regarded by Rastafari is the Kebra Negast,
the Ethiopian national epic, but secondary to the Bible.
Link to Kebra Negast:
http://www.sacred-texts.com/chr/kn/

Symbols
Babylon:

Babylon, is a term used to describe a corrupt white society, it draws from

Babylonian history at times, but it is a generalized term. There are many things
in our modern society considered to be devices of Babylon. Anything from
technology to the Judicial System. Rastas maintain a simple living, and settle
disputes by the use of other means, typically Elders of the community to act as
the wise and experienced mediator.

The Lion of Zion:

Lion of Jah, Selassie, Ethiopia

Zion:

Zion is Ethiopia, the homeland and Mount Zion is where all people will come
together and join with Jah.

InI:

'I and I', rather than you and I. This 'I and I' is used to express a oneness with
God. A oneness with fellow man, and all living things in nature.

Traditional cooking
There is Ital (blessed) cooking traditions, the preparation of 'pure foods', treating the body as a temple, and
achieving wisdom through smoking Ganja. Things like alcohol, drugs (aside Ganja) caffeine, meats, etc.
are often considered the corruptions of Babylon and to partake in these items, would be breaking the
Nazarite vow.
Ital Cooking
The word Ital is derived from the word vital, which reflects the Rastafarian practice of deriving words by
replacing significant syllables with the character "I." Ital cooking is way of preparing and cooking food that
is consistent with Rastafarian beliefs and practices (blessed). Like vital, Ital means essential to human
existence. Ital cooking is an eclectic form of cooking which in its strictest expression excludes the use of
salt, meat (especially pork), preservatives, colorings, flavorings or anything artificial. In practice, in
Jamaica, it involves using available foods and ingredients, which sometimes includes fish and dried salted

fish, but usually not shellfish, and sometimes even a little salt. As a practical mater, cooking Ital food
outside of Jamaica, where fresh ingredients are not readily available, can entail using some canned foods, in
which case additives and salt cannot be avoided.
Ital cooking is essentially traditional Jamaican cooking without salt, meat, and additives. Therefore, a
good Ital cook has to be skilled at using available herbs and spices to produce food that is palatable and
tasty -- indeed ital food is often as tasty as traditional Jamaican cooking.
Ital Cooking recipes:
http://eatjamaican.com/recipes.html
I found this interesting:
"The most strict interpretations also avoid food that has been preserved by canning or drying and even
prohibit the use of metal cooking utensils. In this case, only clay and wood cooking pots, crockery, and
cutlery are used. Few adherents of ital follow the strictest interpretation; some Rastas do not adhere to
them at all."
I found this an interesting read, especially with a person transitioning to Ital cooking:
http://www.rasta-revolution.de/literatur/?text_id=text10

Holy Days
Rasta have their own holidays and celebrations called Nyabinghi, or Binghi for short. The Nyabinghi is a
dance and social held on special occasions.
Such as:

November 2 - the coronation of Selassie

January 6 - ceremonial birthday of Selassie
April 21 - Selassie's visit to Jamaica
July 23 - Selassie's personal birthday
August 1 - emancipation from slavery
August 17 - Marcus Garvey's birthday

Rites of Passage
Births:

Nyabingi celebration for the elders to welcome the child to the community. Food,
chanting, drumming, and prayer is traditional.

Marriage:

There is no set tradition for marriage, but it is regarded as a social event rather than a
religious one. A man and woman who live together, are considered to be married. If a
legal ceremony takes place, this is often considered to be the corruption of Babylon as no
officiating is required by Rastas.

Music
I hear the voice of the Rastaman say:
Babylon your throne gone down, gone down
Babylon your throne gone down.
Fly away home to Zion
Fly away home.
One bright morning when my work is over
I will fly away home
These lyrics reflect the want for universal justice, the Pan-Africanists estrangement from the Motherland,
his yearning to establish a New Jerusalem in Africa and the ultimate wrath of Jah upon Babylon, the
present-day Euro-colonialists and white supremacists.
This is just one example, traditionally the Rastas prefer lyrics which do not portray violence, degradation,
or hatred.
Nyahbingi Drumming & Rhythms
The musical accompaniment consists of a heartbeat rhythm, played in 4/4 time on a trinity of drums. Only
Rastamen are allowed to play drums at Nyahbingi. Anyone may play shaka, or shekere.
Thunder: This is the bottom of the bingi ensemble; there are rarely more than two thunder players at a
gathering. It is a typical looking double-headed bass drum, played with a mallet. an open tone on 1 and a
dampened stroke on 3. Occasionally, the thunder player will syncopate the rhythm.
Funde: Although the funde often resembles a requinto, the smallest conga used in Afro-Cuban music, the
funde is actually the middle drum used in Nyahbingi; it maintains the dominant heartbeat rhythm as the
funde player makes steady, dampened strokes on 1& 3&; it is thus dually known as the heartbeat
and has the least improvisational role.
Repeater: The repeater, or akette, is the smallest and highest pitched drum. It is somewhat of a single
elongated bongo. The drummer tends to play around 2 e & a and 4 e & a, with a syncopated, rather
than a backbeat feel. These beats are important to the overall feel of the Nyahbingi rhythm, but the repeater
has a very improvisational role in bingi because it is seen as the carrier of spirit.
Shaka: The shekere, which is commonly found throughout Africa, the Caribbean Latin America, has a
place in Nyahbingi. The shekere player has a somewhat flexible role: He/she has been known to play on
1, 1&, 1 and 3 or 1&3& [The following should be noted regarding the curious
nomenclature of this instrumentPerhaps the word is a simple corruption of the proper pronunciation; and
there is the possibility that it is a more calculated allusion to the Zulu word for fire, shaka.
Teachings & Reasonings
Rastas exchange ideas, the teachings of the Piby and Rastafarian ideology through social meetings called
Reasonings. This is when Rastas partake of the herb (Cannabis), and focus on education. I located a fairly
decent youtube video, Nyahbinghi Fiyah Reasonings, here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FH2ygNnZxUk&feature=player_embedded
A Rasta way of life
In order to be free of the corruption of Babylon, Rastas live a simple life. Many reject the over-use of
technology, and some refuse to own cars and ride bicycles. This relates to everything in a Rastas life.

Anything from the modest dress and care of the body to where a Rasta lives and shops. Their focus is to
find peace within, harmony with others, Balance with nature and live in accordance with the laws of Jah.
Livity
The Rastafari Livity, is a code of conduct and daily practice. Many modern Rastafari, consider this simply
'One Love' but this is not the true nature of the Livity.
There is a Rastafari Code of Conduct which is published as a guideline. It has been through several changes
over the years, and edited as early as 2008, and 2010 - to keep up with an ever-changing society.

I have summarized the principles as follows:

1. Accept H.I.M. (Selassie) as the cornerstone of belief, and daily practice.

2. Maintain the Rastafari family and nation.
3. Accept the patriarchal fathers, and founders of RastaFari (elders).
4. Defend the sovereign rights of Africa and abroad.
5. Abide by the laws and principles set forth by the Patriarch.
6. Uphold the principles of Love, Freedom, Peace, Justice and Unity.
7. Uphold the end goal, of African liberation and reparation.
8. Celebrate the holy days (I listed these in a prior post).
9. Maintain the Livity, but be respectful of the host of the celebrations (if held at a person's home).
10. The sacred herb should be burned as incense for cleansing, and maintain a space for personal use
(smoking it).
11. Mode of dress should be modest.
12. Only men are allowed on Harps (drums) woman are allowed shakeres.
13. During non-ceremony, women are allowed on Harps.
14. All should abide by the priests of the ceremony.
15. All are responsible for fellowship and world peace.
16. Do not recoil in hatred towards those who are corrupted by Babylon.
17. Maintain peace and love, the fundamental attitude of Rastafari.
18. Maintain InI, and the healing of Africa which will bring about world peace.
19. Maintain health and dietary practice (No animal/animal bi-products, processed foods, genetically
modified foods, salt, some seafood is approved, however no scavenger food).

20. Quarrels should be settled through reasonings, or by council (abstain from the use of the justice system
or vigilante justice).
21. Abstain from slander of Rastafari Brethren, maintain respect.
22. Decisions of the elders (council) should be respected, and their wisdom acknowledged.
23. Acknowledge the contributions of African leaders, Freedom fighters, Liberators, and important
calendar events.
24. Music should maintain cultural roots, and not contain corruptions of Babylon.
25. Maintain the rites of passage (Birth, Marriage, Death).
26. Maintain a healthy sex life (Forbidden: Sodomy, homosexuality, sex with children, rape, bestiality,
whoredom, or prostitution.). This also addresses sex which may cause strife to another (adultery,
exhibitionism, STD's, etc.).
27. Maintain the Binghi creed.

THE NYAH BINGHI CREED

Princes and Princesses must trod out of Egypt
Ithiopians now stretch forth her hands to Jah
O'Jah of I'thiopia .InI Ivine Majesty
Thy Irits trod unto I to dwell in the path of righteousness. Lead InI
Help InI to forgive ,that I must be forgiven
Teach InI love loyalty on earth as It is in Zion
Endow InI with wise mind, knowledge and over standing to do thy will
Thy blessings O'Jah
Let the hungry be fed ,the naked clothed the sick nourished ,the aged protected ,the infants cared for
Deliver InI from the hands of our enemies that InI must prove fruitful in these perilous days
When our enemies are passed and decayed in the depths of the sea ,in the depths of the earth ,in the belly of
the beast
O'give InI a place in thy Iver living Kingman
Through the powers of the King of Kings
Lord of Lords .Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah
Ilect of himself and light of the world
InI Ivine Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I

Jah Rastafari
First Incient King of Iration and for Iver
Jah art the Alpha and Omega
The beginning without end, the First and Forever
The Protectorate of all human faith and ruler of the Iniverse
Thou art the High Priest of the Order of Melchisedek
Who Liveth and Reigneth for Iver
So InI hail our Jah and King Emperor Haile Selassie Jah Rastafari!!
Almighty I Jah Rastafari!
Great and Thunderable I JahRastafari!!

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

7TH January-Ethiopian Feast of the Nativity of Christ
1st March-Battle of Adowa
25th March Empress Menen Earth Day
18th April 1966 H.I.M Visit to Trinidad and Tobago
21 April 1966 H.I.M Visit to Jamaica
The Coral Gardens Atrocity Anniversary Commemoration-Good Friday
25th May All African Liberation Day
16th June The First Patriarch Leonard Howell Earth Day
17th August Marcus Garvey Birth Day
11th Sept-Ethiopian New year
2ND Nov H.I.M Coronation

Rasta Sects
"There are three main sects or orders of Rastafari today. All agree on the basic principles
of the divine status of Haile Selassie and the importance of black images of divinity.
Many Rastafari do not belong to any sect and the movement as a whole is loosely defined
and organized.

The Nyahbinghi Order (a.k.a. Theocratic Priesthood and Livity Order of Nyabinghi) is
named for Queen Nyahbinghi of Uganda, who fought against colonialists in the 19th
century. This is the oldest of the orders and it focuses mainly on Haile Selassie, Ethiopia,
and the eventual return to Africa. It is overseen by an Assembly of Elders.
Bobo Shanti was founded by Prince Emanuel Charles Edwards in Jamaica in the 1950s.
"Bobo" means black and "Shanti" refers to the Ashanti tribe in Ghana, from which this
sect believes Jamaican slaves are descended. Members of Bobo Shanti are also known as
Bobo Dreads.
In belief, Bobo Dreads are distinguished by their worship of Prince Emmanuel (in
addition to Haile Selassie) as a reincarnation of Christ and embodiment of Jah; their
emphasis on the return to Africa ("repatriation"); and their demands for monetary
reimbursement for slavery.
Members of the Bobo Shanti order wear long robes and tightly wrapped turbans around
their dreads. They adhere closely to the Jewish Law, including the observance of the
Sabbath from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday and hygiene laws for menstruating
women. They live separately from Jamaican society and other Rastafarians, growing their
own produce and selling straw hats and brooms. They often carry brooms with them to
symbolize their cleanliness.
The Twelve Tribes of Israel sect was founded in 1968 by Dr. Vernon "Prophet Gad"
Carrington. It is the most liberal of the Rastafarian orders and members are free to
worship in a church of their choosing. Each member of this sect belongs to one of the 12
Tribes (or Houses), which is determined by birth month and is represented by a color"

Controversy
Is Selassie Jesus?

Jesus and Selassie are the same, therefore

Moses is the same. InI, is all men are of Jah
- and when men lose their way, the Rastafari
message of Unity and Peace is brought by
men who maintain the Livity and share the
Livity with others. How did man become
corrupted in the first place? How was
Babylon created
if all men are of
Jah?
By not
living by the
livity,
falling
from the grace of
Jah. Why did Jah
create man in the
first place? The Biblical creation story (Genesis) is often referred to.

As a result, Orthodox Jews will protest against the Rastafarian Movement, as a

corruption of Judaism. Christians will also speak out against the Rastafarian theology as a corruption of
Christianity.

One member writes:

Ethiopia that was repressed by Haile Selassie I. My people have suffered under Haile Selassie's reign.
People from my ethnic group and others were tortured, oppressed, and repressed when he ruled Ethiopia.
p.s.-Just in case you did not know, there are Jews who are against Zionism. Judaism does not equal
Zionism. To learn more on this issue you can visit this site:
http://www.nkusa.org/

Haile Selassie, claimed to be a direct descendant of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, which is how
he managed to rise to the icon he is today.
Over the course of 14 years, he secured himself as a political leader and by strategy and acquired power
through oppression.
By the 1960's, he showed such an indifference to famine and poverty, that more and more people began to
see the true Selassie. In 1963, he hosted a diplomatic conference which would secure South-East Ethiopian
from Somalian claims. His rule was declining, he managed to acquire riches, while the people were
starving and in poverty. He paraded around like a royal golden king, while they suffered from malnutrition
and illness.
He was eventually murdered in his own palace by Mengistu in 1974, who was found guilty of genocide in
2006.
The counter to Selassie as an apathetic ruler, people often propagate that the famine can not be the
responsibility of one man. However what these propagators gloss over, is that Selassie is not being held
responsible for the famine, but rather his attitude towards it and the suffering of the people.
Sumptuous Banquets
"Selassie bred corruption in Ethiopia; he maintained a backward and inhuman system
in which millions of his subject lived in degrading poverty, oppressive misery and
ignorance. Nowhere in the world was the gulf between rich and poor greater. In 1973
Jonathan Dimbleby visited northern Ethiopia and made the film which was to signal the
end for Selassie. The film for the first time showed that people were starving to death in
their multitudes, despite the money for 'development' which was being pumped into the
country. At the Palace the splendour and riches seemed to know no bounds. The juxta
positioning of the two contrasting images in the film was striking; the pigs with their
sumptuous banquets were growing fatter on the backs of walking skeletons. Of course
this hunger suited Selassie as people could hardly rebel when they were starving to death.
There was in fact, however, plenty of grain in Ethiopia. But landowners took the harvest
from the peasants, grain prices doubled and the farmers who grew the grain could not
afford to buy it.
As the dying continued, western journalists were no longer allowed into Northern
Ethiopia. Selassie preferred to show off his great 'developments' to the world press. The
suffering could not be hidden indefinitely so, as the situation became a bigger and bigger
embarrassment to the Emperor, the Police began to kill off the starving en masse.
It is ironic that Selassie liked to project an image of himself to the world of a kind,
tolerant and benevolent soul, yet those in his country who detracted from this image were
usually executed. Supporters of Selassie could argue that it was his underlings and not he
that were responsible for the atrocities and corruption, the Emperor being kept in total

ignorance of the situation. A look at the facts shows this to be impossible. Selassie knew
what he was doing when he stuffed the money stolen from his subjects under his mattress
and encouraged others in his employ to do likewise. Polish journalist Ryszard
Kapuscinski wrote of Selassie: "the Emperor himself amassed his great riches. The older
he grew, the greater became his greed, his pitiable cupidity...he and his people took
millions from the state treasurer and left cemeteries full of people who had died of
hunger, cemeteries visible from the windows of the royal palace"
(The Emperor (1984) Picador p.160).

Ethiopian Refugees
Immediately after this federation was formed, the
emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, completely
stripped Eritreans of all rights and autonomy as had
been agreed upon in the pact, and banned all forms of
public protest. Eritreans were met with silence when
they petitioned the UN to at least uphold the terms of
the federation pact. Further, Emperor Haile Selassie
disbanded the Eritrean national assembly and annexed
the territory, triggering a 30-year liberation war by
Eritreans. It is widely believed among Eritreans and
non-Eritreans alike that these events and the failure of
the international community to act justly without
underlying interests is the source of the current
suffering in Eritrea.

In addition, Selassie is said to have killed over 20,000 Eritreans; but the numbers vary attributed to poor
record keeping.
Final Years of Emperor Haile Selassie's Rule
"The failure of Emperor Haile Selassie to modernize the country and address deep seeded
social problems combined with famine and the simmering war in Eritrea to make the
aging Emperor increasingly unpopular.

A coup was launched when the Emperor was away on a foreign visit (1960).
The Emperor's oldest son was involved. After the coup was defeated, he claimed that the
coup plotters forced him to participate. This began a period of rising unrest. The Emperor
proved unable to institute needed formal reforms, in part because a modernization of
Ethiopian society would undermine the traditional supports of the monarchy. The
Emperor was active in foreign affairs. He played a major role in founding the
Organization of African Unity (IAU) (1963). The OAU secretariat was located at Addis
Ababa. The aging Emperor continued to be active in international affairs (early 1970s).
He helped to mediate disputes between Senegal and Guinea, Tanzania and Uganda, and
northern and southern Sudan. But he for the most part ignored domestic problems.
Overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie (1974)
There was great inequity in Ethiopian society. Wealth was unequally distributed, with a
small number of people controlling large areas of agricultural land as well as much of the
country's wealth. The economy might be described as virtually feudal. Little effort was
made to develop the countryside. There was extensive official corruption. Inflation
became a major problem as well as high rates of urban unemployment. These problems

were exacerbated by severe drought in the north (1972-75). Strikes and demonstrations
were organized by students, workers, and soldiers (February 1974). A wave of
demonstrations, mutinies and uprisings succeeded in overthrowing the Emperor. The
military finally seized power (September 12, 1974). The Emperor was held under armed
guard in his palace and died several months later."

Eritrea, a raging war:

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,919103,00.html

Recognition
When Selassie's remains were found under a toilet in the palace, a funeral was planned to put Selassie to
rest in 2000. The public response was divided.

Final farewell to the Rastafarians' 'living god'

Ethiopia's last emperor, Haile Selassie, has finally been laid
to rest in Addis Ababa's Trinity Cathedral, more than 25
years after his mysterious death.

Although they killed you and threw your body in an

unmarked grave, they could not tarnish your image. -Orthodox Priest

Priests in lavish robes, elderly warriors with lions' manes on their heads and dread-locked
Rastafarians joined the funeral procession for the man some believe to be a living god.
But the crowds were much smaller than expected, several thousand-strong, not the
hundreds of thousands predicted by the organizers, the Emperor Haile Selassie I
Foundation.
The government had refused to allow the occasion the status of a
state burial, having recently accused the former emperor of
oppression and brutality during his 45-year rule.

Haile Selassie's portrait during his funeral procession

The last ruling descendant of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba

But the procession was still intensely emotional, with many people weeping openly as the
haunting chant of Orthodox prayers rang out over the city.
"He was one of the world's most brilliant leaders, next to King Solomon of Israel," said
Feyesa Wolde Emanuel, an 87-year-old former officer dressed in his old uniform. "He
loved his people."
"This is as if I were being reborn," said another former imperial officer, Sergeant Abera
Gebremariam, 62.
The funeral cortege left Ba'ata Mariam Geda Church at dawn and followed a 10km (six
mile) route to the Trinity Cathedral, via the main Meskal Square in Addis Ababa.
Haile Selassie's remains had been kept at the church since they were discovered under a
palace toilet in 1992.

His body has now been laid to rest at the cathedral where other members of the Ethiopian
Imperial family have been buried.
The funeral procession was intensely emotional
After prayers attended by members of the former royal family, the Patriarch of the
Ethiopian Orthodox Church, Abune Paulos, paid tribute to the emperor, stressing
his "remarkable contribution to Ethiopia, the church, Africa and the entire world."
"Although they killed you and threw your body in an unmarked grave, they could not
tarnish your image," said an Orthodox priest during the mass.

'Despot'
Haile Selassie ruled Ethiopia for 45 years before he was overthrown by the Marxist
dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1974.

Haile Selassie Timeline

1892: Born near Harar
1928: Ascends to throne of Shoa
1930: Ascends to imperial throne
1936: Exiled after Italian invasion
1941: Returns to Addis Ababa
1974: Deposed by Mengistu
1975: Dies while in custody
The 81-year-old emperor was detained in his palace by Mengistu's soldiers.
He died a year later, many believe murdered by his captors. His remains were found in
1992, buried under a toilet in the Imperial Palace.
More than 25 years have passed since his death, but his legacy still lives on. Haile
Selassie is one of the founding fathers of the OAU and is viewed by many as the

figurehead of African independence, for his defiance against the Italian colonial invasion
in the 1930s.
He is also revered by the million-strong Rastafarian community, who believe that the
Ethiopian emperor either remains alive and well, or ascended bodily into heaven.

Rita Marley
Reggae singer Bob Marley's wife Rita was among the mourners
When Haile Selassie was enthroned in 1930, he became not only emperor of Ethiopia, but
also god to the fledgling Rastafarian movement in Jamaica.
While most Rastafarians have condemned the funeral, a few hundred have arrived in
Addis Ababa for the burial, insisting they are here to "merely observe, rather than to
participate."
Ras Lumumba, a Sudanese Rastafarian who came to settle in Ethiopia three years ago,
says the Emperor is their Messiah or Jah.
"Haile Selassie is King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and the conquering lion of the Tribe of
Judah. He is everything to us Rastafarians and we will never accept that he is dead."
(Source: News, BBC, Africa)
The Evidence Stacked-up Against Selassie
When I began my research, it was in early 2000. I was trying to understand how in lieu of the evidence
against him, why he remained so highly regarded.
1. He was using religion to oppress people, obtain power and wealth
2. He alienated several groups of people within Ethiopia's borders, to include oppression, stripping them of
their rights, and persecuting them.
3. His military strategy was not in the best interest of Ethiopia, but rather his regime.
4. He showed disdain for any independence.
5. He demonstrated apathy towards the suffering of Ethiopians during the drought and famine.
6. His strategy included the murder and exile of thousands of people.
7. He flaunted his wealth, and preyed on the poverish, uneducated black to worship him as a god, making
them humble in his presence.
8. What he did in life, did not match the principles he preached.
9. He kept Ethiopia in an archaic state, with a focus on archaic education.
10. He fled Ethiopia, lived in luxury in Bath all the while focusing on more political strategy from abroad.
11. He systematically vilified groups of people as Babylonians.
12. He used scripture to perpetuate racism, sexism, and hatred.

Hailie Salassi I, Corrupt Leader

H.I.M.: As far as H.I.M. is concerned, the Rastafari are divided on he (Hailie Selassie I) as the Lord of
Lords, attributed to Marcus Garvey, not Salassie himself. In fact, many see Selassie as a dictator who
raped Ethiopia and left it in poverty. Some see Selassie as the false prophet, who used Rastafarian religious
values to distract the people while he hoarded the wealth of Ethiopia. Salassie 'ruled' the people with his
values, and made political moves as a military leader. He also kept the country from modernization and
taught archaic education. He is often criticized by scholars sought to find solutions to modern day
problems which can be traced to the era of Hailie Selassi I, as a military leader.
However when you stand back and take a look at the principles of Rastafarianism, there is a pleasant
message behind it. I concluded that Selassie is regarded so highly as the proprietor of these ideologies;
even if he did not subscribe to them himself, or author them for that matter.

Live as one.
Live in peace.
Mend the mind, and the body will follow.
Live simple, and humble.
Reject corruption and any attempt at influencing your mind.
Smoke Weed (which affects the brain, in a detrimental way).
Reconcile with your brothers and sisters.
Respect your elders
Respect each other

At closer examination I identified so much that was truly in opposition of those ideals. Many of which
include alienation of groups, thus there can be no true unity.

Self-sacrifice, in favor of Liberty.

Gender bias.
Indoctrination to be subservient.
Trickery and deception.
Censored education (i.e. abstaining truths about knowledge, and real world education, especially in lieu
of the affects of THC on the brain).

Worship vs. human development

These are just a few. Selassie was not a member of the Rastafarian Movement. Instead, he maintained an
Orthodox faith.
Haile Selassie's attitude to the Rastafarians
Haile Selassie was never a member of the Rastafarian faith, though he never publicly condemned it. During
his lifetime the Emperor was a devout member of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. His views towards the
Rastafarians varied from polite interest to unsettled concern. Selassie did not personally believe the divine
claims made of him by the Rastafarians. When interviewed by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's
Bill McNeil in 1967 Selassie denied being an emanation from divinity.
The Rastas were never worried by Haile Selassie never claiming to be God, saying that the real God would
never claim to be so just to get worldly acclaim and power. During the Emperor's visit to Jamaica he told
the Rastafarian community leaders that they should not emigrate to Ethiopia until they had liberated the
people of Jamaica. After the visit, the Emperor is said to have told Ethiopian Orthodox Archbishop Abuna
Yesehaq: "There is a problem in Jamaica Please, help these people. They are misunderstanding; they do
not understand our culture They need a church to be established and you are chosen to go."
As a gesture of kindness to the Rastafarians and their aspirations of returning to Africa, the Emperor
donated a piece of land at Shashamane, 250 km south of Addis Ababa for the use of Jamaican Rastafarians.
There is still a community there.

Selassie and Emanation

Rastas will often use the 1967 interview to prove that Selassie did not deny being Christ.

Emanationism is an idea in the cosmology or cosmogony of certain religious or philosophical systems.

Emanation, from the Latin emanare meaning "to flow from" or "to pour forth or out of", is the mode by
which all things are derived from the First Reality, or Principle. All things are derived from the first reality
or perfect God by steps of degradation to lesser degrees of the first reality or God, and at every step the
emanating beings are less pure, less perfect, and less divine. Emanationism is a transcendent principle from
which everything is derived, and is opposed to both Creationism (wherein the universe is created by a
sentient God who is separate from creation) and materialism (which posits no underlying subjective and/or
ontological nature behind phenomena, being immanent).
What I find most fascinating, is that Salassie just sort of goes along with the whole Rastafari thing, but
doesn't embrace it himself. He has been quoted to have said 'The people of Jamaica are lost, and need
direction', in the context of a more Orthodox Religion.
His personal beliefs, especially with regard to emanation - come from adherence to his religion, and
personal ideologies.
It is much easier to show compassions to animals. They are never wicked.
-Haile Selassie I
When Selassie was asked (1967 interview), what he thought about the idea of the Rastafarians believing
him to be Christ he said:

I have heard of that idea. I also met certain Rastafarians. I told them clearly that I am a man, that I am
mortal and that they should never make a mistake in assuming or pretending that a human being is
emanated from a deity.
In a public speech Selassie said:
No doubt you all remember reading in the Acts of the Apostles how Philip baptized the Ethiopian official.
He is the first Ethiopian on record to have followed Christ, and from that day onwards the Word of
God has continued to grow in the hearts of Ethiopians.
1966 conference in Berlin (One Gospel, One Race, One Task")
The love shown by our God to mankind should constrain all of us who are followers and disciples of
Christ, to do all in our power to see to it that the message of salvation is carried to those of our fellows for
whom Christ our Savior was sacrificed but who have not had the benefit
of hearing the good news.
Homosexuality
Rastafari, view homosexuality as sinful and a device of Babylon. The Rastafarian doctrine, takes on a
more traditional biblical approach to homosexuality, and is even more hyper-critical towards female
homosexuals. I was reading up on the Rastafarian movement within the prison system. Since
homosexuality is common in prison populations, I was looking for information which addressed how that is
handled within the prison system. Anti-homosexuality is taught, and used to keep Rasta on the course to
Zion. Homosexuality is viewed as a device of Babylon to keep Rasta from reaching Zion. Corrupting the
word of the Piby and the Bible doctrine to 'fit' homosexuality, is also seen as a corruption of Babylon.
Article
Why Jamaicans hate Gays
Nov 16th, 2009
Jamaicans fear of homosexuality dates back to the countrys history. During the days of
slavery and sugar plantations, African male slaves were sodomized as a means of
breaking their spirits and emasculating them. The idea by the plantocracy was to reduce
the black mans notions of fatherhood and distort his view.
Jamaican is being regarded as one of the most homophobic societies within the western
hemisphere. Jamaicans intolerance and aversion to homosexuality has been evident in the
lyrics of music native to the island such as dancehall music, the tales told by tourist
visiting the island and the grisly murders that gays are subjected to when their sexual
orientations and preferences becomes public knowledge.
Males that exhibit effete conducts homosexuals such drag queens, acting transvestites and
effeminate men are regarded with social disdain and contempt. Effeminate men are
immediately classified as being homosexual or potentials based on their effete demeanor.
Very few male actors would dare play a female role in Jamaican Theater for fear of
violent retribution. Effeminate Jamaican males have great relationships with females but
are stared upon with contempt and derision by males. Jamaican fathers and communal
males view a young boys effete behavior as a precursor to homosexuality and will
vehemently vow to repudiate their sons or friends if they discover that they have
homophile tendencies. Men who extrude homophile characteristics such as effeminate
gesticulation or actions that are socially deemed feminine are called Shebada, a name
coined from a Jamaican character in Jamaican plays who behaves like woman in speech,
diction and conduct.

Jamaicans fear of homosexuality dates back to the countrys history. During the days of
slavery and sugar plantations, African male slaves were sodomized as a means of
breaking their spirits and emasculating them. The idea by the plantocracy was to reduce
the black mans notions of fatherhood and distort his views of any masculine societal
roles that he may have played in Africa. Sodomization often took place in public. This
may include, white slave masters penetrating a black slave to the point where blood and
fecal matter would be spouted from his cavity. This would take place in the presence of
the slave population. Additionally, slave masters would coerce two black male slaves to
have sex together as a sport before his European superiors. Due to the social and
emotional degradation that was brought about by these forms of seasoning and black
oppression, many Jamaican males are intolerant of homosexuals. The tales of such
debasing acts were transferred through generations and todays population (progeny of
slaves) censures Gays.
Jamaican males perceived homosexuality as demeaning act. They perceived the act as
emasculating and unmanning. They regard the feminine behavior of males as enfeebling.
Many men find the idea of a man mounting another male as inconceivable and ad
nauseam. What is most befuddling for Jamaicans regarding homophile is that one partner
normally exudes feminine characteristics. Most Jamaican men question this phenomenon
asserting that even though a man is with another man. He needs to have a relationship
with a male that exhibits female behavioral characteristics. A man who behaves like a
woman is ideal for homosexual, cementing the ideology among Jamaican men that
homosexuality renders men powerless, upset the balance of nature and according to
Rastafarians is an insult to God Almighty, who created Adam and Eve and not Adam and
Steve.
Jamaica has the most churches per square mile I believe in this hemisphere. Young
Jamaicans are socialized by the church and the influence of Christianity from a young age
as attending church is customary for young children. The teachings of Christianity and
more so Rastafarianism (an Afro centric extension of Christianity) indicates that
homosexuality is a sin and an abomination. Christians and Rastafarian utilizes the
Christian bible as their holy book and make references to scriptures that condemns
homosexuality.
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and scriptures that were handed down to Moses
in Leviticus reviling homophiles as an anathema and an offense to the almighty creator
who created man for woman and woman for man hence the term Adam and Eve and not
Adam and Steve. Many Jamaicans use these scriptures as support for their denouncement
of homosexuality and the influence of religion has the made the idea of passing gay right
laws in Jamaica merely impossible.
The AIDS/HIV virus has contributed to the intolerance of Jamaicans to homosexual as
many Jamaicans claim that it is Batty Man who brought the disease into society by
copulating with men, women and animals. This belief was conceived when tourist came
to the island and had sexual intercourse with small boys in exchange for money. Many
men who contracted HIV in Jamaica were presupposed to have contracted from
copulation with male tourists and wealthy men in exchange for money. Many
homosexuals have resorted to abducting young boys, sexually assaulting and murdering
children. These recent acts of barbarism have incensed the Jamaican population and have
made it even more difficult for Gays to be given rights in the society. Gays have a
tendency to rape young men and boys. When ambassador Peter King was murdered it
was because he had made sexual advances at a young man in exchange for money and a
raise in his standard of living. Many wealthy clandestine men are offering young men
from the ghetto sexual coitus in return for money for school fees, cars and other luxuries
and amenities. It is said that this may also be contributing to the spread of HIV as
homosexuals rarely used protection and most young men who have sex with older

wealthy Gay men are having intercourse with young women thus spreading sexual
transmitted diseases.
This notion has been embraced by Jamaicans and many Jamaican women believe that
they got HIV because their partner was involved with another man. The fear of
contracting the HIV virus has lead to increase aversions towards homosexual. This has
also prevented the health ministry from being able to adequately stem the disease as
many homosexuals have to be discreet about their social preferences. Gays have to
clandestine as the minute someone at a hospital or within the health sector discovers that
their health is at stake due to sodomy. The patient(s) will be treated with disdain and the
wider society will gain knowledge of it. Even if the person recovers and rejoins the
society, he will have to uproot himself from is community. The family will ostracize and
denounced him for being a homosexual.
It should be noted that Jamaicans tend to be far more tolerant of lesbianism than male
homosexuality. It is said that Jamaican men do not find the idea of a woman having sex
with another woman despicable. In fact most Jamaican men are aroused by the idea and
many would enjoy watching such an encounter.
Additionally many Jamaican men are having anal sex with women. Many liberal
individuals find that idea as a social double standard. Consequently men who have anal
intercourse with women have to be very private about their sexual predilection. Many
conventional Jamaican men contend that a man who has anal sex with a woman is prone
to have sex with a man. Therefore men who have anal copulation with females are
despised and scorned up on. The idea is that sooner or later the male with seek out the
companion of men.
Jamaica is a very conservative and orthodox society whenever it comes to sexuality and
sexual orientation. Jamaicans and individuals of Jamaican descent attest to the fact that
Jamaicans are very uncomfortable, rigid and archaic in their sexual predilection. An
African American friend of mine once said that Jamaican men are not the only men of
African descent who are reserved when it comes to sexuality and sexual orientation. Most
Jamaican men publicly denounce oral sex while a vast majority of them are engaging in
the act. It is all about communal acceptance.
The need for communal acceptance and fear of violent social response are the reasons
why Jamaican male homosexuals will not publicly voice their sexual predispositions.
Most families will disown and reject homosexual relatives. Homosexual sons and
paternal relationships would be destroyed beyond repair. Rigid social norms and values,
stern sexual strictures and social cementations brought on by the overt scorn of
homosexuals in dancehall music have made it even more difficult to sensitize the society
on homosexual.

Crystal Evans
Freelance writer/Journalist/Editor

Racism

While Rastafarianism has seemingly Pro-Black and Anti-White ideals, it has gone through many changes
since its beginnings. More modern Rastas, will tell you that Rastafarianism is for all, and skin color is
irrelevant.
I'm finding that 'Black' is being used to represent the 'Earth' vs. the ethnicity of the person. So, in the case
of using the 'Black Man's Bible' (Piby), rather than correlating it to the ethnicity, some will correlate it to
the color of Mother Africa, the earth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while I have acquired a better understanding of what Rastafari believe and practice, I can not
subscribe to these principles in total myself. I can however find common themes present in other religions
and philosophies which relate directly to the human condition. The Rastafari have their own methods of
relating to their fellow man, finding harmony within themselves and their position within the grand scheme
of things. I can identify the humanist values it contains, but also the oppressive attributes which seek to
suppress man's nature.

Sources/Bibliography:
Bibliography

Leonard E. Barrett, Sr., The Rastafarians: Sounds of Cultural Dissonance (Boston: Beacon Press,
1988).
Leonard E. Barrett, Sr., The Rastafarians: The Dreadlocks of Jamaica (Kingston: Sangster's Book
Stores, 1977).
E. Cashmore, The Rastafarians (London: Minority Rights Group, 1984).
E. Cashmore, Rastaman: The Rastafarian Movement in England (London: G. Allen and Unwin, 1979).
B. Chevannes, Rastafari and Other African-Caribbean Worldviews (New Jersey: Rutgers University
Press, 1998).
B. Chevannes, Rastafari: Roots and Ideology (Syracuse: Syracuse University Press, 1994).
P. Clark, Black Paradise: The Rastafarian Movement (San Bernadino: Borgo Press, 1994).
G. Hausman, The Kebra Negast: The Book of Rastafarian Wisdom and Faith From Ethiopia and
Jamaica (New York: St. Martin's Press, 1997).
Kelleyana Junique, Rastafari? Rasta for You: Rastafarianism Explained (Athena Press Pub, 2004).
W. Lewis, Soul Rebels: The Rastafari (Illinois: Waveland Press, 1997).
J. Melton, Encyclopedia of American Religions, 5th Edition (Detroit: Gale Research. 1996).
I. Morrish, Obeah, Christ, and Rastaman: Jamaica and its Religion (Cambridge: James Clarke & Co.,
1982).
Nathaniel Samuel Murrell, ed., Chanting Down Babylon: The Rastafari Reader (Temple University
Press, 1998).
J. Owens, Dread: The Rastafarians of Jamaica (London: Heinemann Press, 1979).
R. Ringenberg, Rastafarianism, an Expanding Jamaican Cult (Jamaica: Jamaica Theological Seminary,
1978).
W. Spencer, Dread Jesus (London: Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, 1999).

Sources:

"Rastafarians." Oxford Concise Dictionary of World Religions

"Haile Selassie." Encyclopdia Britannica Premium Service (accessed August 2006).
"About H.I.M. Haile Selassie." Jamaicans.com
"The Holy Piby: The holy text of the Rastafari" - BobMarley.com
"Rasta's Symbolism" - The Afrocentric Experience
B. Chevannes, Rastafari and Other African-Caribbean Worldviews (Rutgers University Press, 1998),
17-18.
"The Rastafarian Orders/Sects." Jamaicans.com

Vocabulary
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rastafarian_vocabulary

SIN Jones

The Poison Apple

www.the-poison-apple.com
January 2011