With roughly a million adherents spread around the world,
Rastafarianism is a branch of Christianity with roots in Africa. Rastas
are known for their dreadlocks, a hairstyle inspired by the Bible, and
also follow a special dietary code that shuns meat and alcohol in favor
of fruits and vegetables. Prayer may take many forms in the Rastafarian
faith and often involves music.
About Rastafarianism
Rastafarianism is based on the belief that Haile Selassie I, who
was the king of Ethiopia from 1917 to 1930, is an incarnation of God.
Followers of the religion believe Selassie will return and give Africa
back to black people, who lost their land due to slavery and
colonization. Like other Christians, Rastas revere the Bible as their
main holy text and many aspects of their faith and lifestyle are
inspired by its passages.
Rastafarian Prayer and Marijuana
Rastafarians regard marijuana as a sacred herb and use it as a part
of prayer and worship. Consumption of marijuana, which rastas often
call "wisdom weed," involves saying a special prayer before it is smoked
in a group setting in what is known as a "reasoning session." During
these sessions, Rastas use marijuana to "produce visions of a religious
and calming nature," according to the BBC, and may read from the Bible,
sing or discuss important issues.
Music and Prayer
Traditional music, known as nyabinghi, is of central importance to
Rastafarian prayer. Combining traditional African drums with
19th-century gospel, nyabinghi typically accompanies reasoning sessions
and other forms of prayer. The rhythm of traditional drums is believed
to deepen the spiritual effects of prayer and reasoning sessions. Often,
nyabinghi is accompanied by the recitation of traditional chants, which
are also a form of prayer, with lyrics about Africa, freedom and the
redemption of black people.
Dance
Just as music plays an important role in Rastafarian prayer,
dancing is also a key part of religious worship. On special occasions
and Rasta holy days, like Groundation, which celebrates the arrival of
Haile Selassie I in Jamaica, believers take part in dances that may last
for several days, according to Religion Facts. Special Rasta events
will bring thousands of people together for singing and dancing in a
special tabernacle
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