Rastafarian & Jamaican Culture

When you think of Rastafarian culture, one of the first things that probably pops into your mind is the iconic dreadlocks. These aren’t just a cool hairstyle for the beach—they hold deep spiritual and cultural meaning for Rastafarians. So, why do Rastas grow dreads? What’s the symbolism behind the locks? And how did a hairstyle end up symbolizing rebellion, spirituality, and African pride? Grab a cup of ital tea, kick back, and let’s dive into the sacred and symbolic world …

Chapter 1: From Babylon to Zion Rastafari is more than dreadlocks and drumbeats; it’s a whole philosophy birthed in di hills of Jamaica. Sparked in di 1930s, when life under di colonial Babylon system was no picnic, Rastafari emerged as a movement of freedom, faith, and African pride. Inspired by Marcus Garvey’s call to “look to Africa”, Jamaicans anointed Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia (then Ras Tafari Makonnen) as di divine King of Kings. Selassie wasn’t just a ruler; to …