Rastafarians

Rastafarians, often shortened to Rastas, are adherents of a spiritual movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s. The movement's theology centers on the belief that Haile Selassie I, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, is a divine figure, a messianic descendant of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, and the reincarnation of God on Earth. Rastafarianism views Ethiopia as Zion, a promised land, and Babylon as the oppressive Western world. The ultimate goal for Rastafarians is repatriation to Africa.

Central to Rastafarian practice are the use of ganja (cannabis) as a sacrament, believed to aid in meditation and spiritual insight, and a diet that often excludes pork, shellfish, and processed foods, adhering to kosher principles. Many Rastafarians also practice Ital living, a lifestyle emphasizing naturalness and simplicity. Distinctive hairstyles, known as dreadlocks, are a prominent visual symbol of the faith, representing a commitment to divine vows and a rejection of societal norms. The music of reggae, particularly the work of Bob Marley, played a significant role in popularizing Rastafarian beliefs and culture globally. While initially a marginalized movement in Jamaica, Rastafarianism has gained international recognition and followers.