What is the history of Rastafarianism?
The Rastafari movement began in Jamaica during the 1930s following a prophecy made by Marcus Garvey, a black political leader. The prophecy was rapidly followed by the crowning of Emperor Haile Selassie I in Ethiopia. Rastafarians see this as the fulfilment of Garvey’s prophecy.
What are the main beliefs of Rastafarianism?
The key ideas in contemporary Rastafari are:
- The humanity of God and the divinity of man.
- God is found within every man.
- God in history.
- Salvation on earth.
- The supremacy of life.
- Respect for nature.
- The power of speech.
- Evil is corporate.
When did Rastafarianism start?
1930s
Rastafari is a religious and political movement that began in Jamaica in the 1930s and was adopted by many groups around the globe. It combines Protestant Christianity, mysticism, and a pan-African political consciousness.
What is Rastafarianism based on?
A spiritual movement based on the belief in Selassie’s divinity, its followers congregated around preachers like Leonard Howell, who founded the first prominent Rastafarian community in 1940.
What is the Rastafarian philosophy?
Rastafari is Afrocentric and focuses attention on the African diaspora, which it believes is oppressed within Western society, or “Babylon”. Many Rastas call for this diaspora’s resettlement in Africa, a continent they consider the Promised Land, or “Zion”. Some practitioners extend these views into black supremacism.
What color is Rasta?
The Rastafarian colours are red, green and gold. Sometimes black is added. These colours are chosen because: Red signifies the blood of those killed for the cause of the black community, throughout Jamaican history.
How many types of Rasta are there?
There are three distinct orders of the Rastafarian movement which hold different beliefs and symbols. These are: Boba Shanti, Nyahbinji and the Twelve tribes.