Rastafarianism

Definition:

• Religious socio-cultural movement “is a modern Afro-Caribbean cultural phenomenon that combines concepts from African culture “and the Caribbean experience (social, historical, religious, and economic realities) with Judeo-Christian thought into a new socio-political and religious worldview”

• Cultural movement, “a system of beliefs and state of consciousness” that advances a view of economic survival and political organization and structure that challenges the dominant cultural political “narrative” (ideology) in the politics of Babylon. Nathaniel Samuel Murrell

Key figures and their significance:

• Marcus Garvey: a major influence on Rastafarianism, he promoted Black pride, Pan-Africanism, and the Back-to-Africa movement

• Haile Selassie I: “Black man’s god”

• Leonard Percival Howell: prophet of Ras Tafari

Influences:

• Judeo-Christian

  • Rastafarianism incorporates Biblical themes, particularly from the Old Testament

  • Beliefs in exile (Babylon) and redemption (Zion) parallel the experiences of the African diaspora

  • Haile Selassie is seen as the descendant of King Solomon and Queen of Sheba

• Jamaican

  • Emerged as a response to colonial oppression, racism, and economic struggles in Jamaica

  • Deeply connected to reggae music, particularly through artists like Bob Marley, who spread Rastafarian beliefs globally

  • Ital diet (natural, plant-based food) and dreadlocks symbolize a rejection of Babylonian influences

• African influences

  • Emphasizes African heritage, identity, and liberation

  • Draws from Ethiopian traditions and symbols, particularly the Ethiopian flag and the Lion of Judah

  • Advocates for the repatriation of Africa as the spiritual and ancestral homeland