When someone mentions Rastafarianism, people usually think of dreadlocks, big joints and crocheted hats with the vibrant colors of red, yellow and green. But there’s so much more than just aesthetics in Rastafarianism. It is an entire entity that combines religion, spirituality, politics and culture, however many simply refer to it as a way of life. At Starbird Cannabis Dispensary, we believe it is essential to educate and represent the pioneers of marijuana throughout history and the modern world. Let’s explore the culture of Rasta, and answer some questions about its relationship with cannabis.

Where and How Did Rastafarianism begin?

Rastafarianism is rooted in Jamaica and began in the 1930s during a period of British colonial rule. At the time, Jamaica had a long history marked by the exploitation of enslaved Africans, who were forcibly brought to the island to cultivate sugarcane for British profit. Even after slavery was abolished in 1838, the colonial system continued to enforce economic inequality, systemic racism, and social oppression, leaving many descendants of the enslaved in conditions of poverty. This environment of cultural erasure and colonial domination created the conditions for a movement centered on reclaiming African identity and resisting oppression.

Who Are the Main Figures of Rastafarianism?

Marcus Garvey
Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican political activist, founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914 to promote black unity, economic self-reliance, and pride in African heritage. The UNIA grew into one of the largest black-led movements, advocating for the global unification of African descendants and a liberated, independent Africa under the motto, "One God, One Aim, One Destiny." Garvey’s call to “look to Africa, where a black king shall be crowned” inspired the Rastafarian movement, which saw Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia as the fulfillment of this prophecy. Garvey himself did not claim Selassie as a god incarnate. He was, in fact, very critical of Selassie’s fleeing from Ethiopia during the Italian invasion of 1935. 

 Despite his profound influence on black empowerment and Pan-Africanism, Garvey’s legacy is complicated by his controversial views, including anti-Semitic rhetoric, rigid racial separatism, and collaboration with white supremacists. While his contributions remain significant, these flaws invite a nuanced understanding of his impact.

Haile Selassie

Haile Selassie, while practicing Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity and never proclaiming himself as a prophet or divine figure, became the cornerstone of Rastafarian faith due to the profound spiritual significance attached to his coronation. Rastafarians regard Selassie as Jah, or God incarnate, believing him to be the fulfillment of biblical prophecy and Marcus Garvey's call to “look to Africa.” Ethiopia, often referred to as “Zion” within Rastafarian belief, represents not only a physical homeland but also a spiritual sanctuary where African descendants can reconnect with their heritage and identity. The belief that Selassie would lead the diaspora back to Africa as part of their redemption became a central tenet of Rastafarianism, emphasizing liberation, unity, and a return to cultural roots. Despite Selassie’s own disavowal of divine status, his reign and Ethiopia's unyielding independence continue to symbolize hope and spiritual connection for Rastafarians worldwide.

Leonard Howell

  Leonard Howell, known as the "first Rasta," was a Jamaican preacher and one of the founding figures of the Rastafarian movement in the 1930s. He was among the first to proclaim Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia as the living God, viewing Selassie’s coronation as a divine event and Ethiopia as the ultimate sanctuary for black people worldwide. Howell’s teachings emphasized liberation from colonial oppression and encouraged followers to reject Western values, which he referred to as "Babylon," in favor of an Afrocentric way of life. He established Pinnacle, a self-sustained Rastafarian community in Jamaica, where residents embraced communal living, cultivated ganja for spiritual use, and fostered African cultural practices. Howell’s outspoken defiance of colonial rule and his unorthodox lifestyle led to frequent arrests and state persecution, but his pioneering work provided the foundation for the growth of Rastafarianism as a unique spiritual and cultural movement.

What Are the Core Tenets of Rastafarianism?

Ethiopia as Zion - Rastafarians claim Ethiopia as “Zion” and their spiritual homeland. Not only is this characterized by Haile Selassie’s impact, but also the country’s tenacious fight against European colonialism. Since Ethiopia was never colonized, Rastafarians revere it as a true homeland for disenfranchised African descendants all over the world. It is a place of true freedom, where African heritage can be embraced and celebrated to the fullest.

Rejection of Babylon - Since Rastafarianism is tied to Christianity, they refer to Babylon as the Western world rather than its historical sight in modern day Iraq. Babylon represents slavery, colonization, racism and materialism. Babylon is characterized in Rastafarianism by its spiritual degeneracy and inequality. This manifests as scorn for overindulgence and consumerist society from the Rastafarians. They dedicate themselves to live simple lives that are built on community and spiritual connection to Jah. 

Ital Lifestyle - A very important belief of Rastafarianism is a clean lifestyle. This is referred to as “Ital”, derived from the word vitality. The Ital diet is composed of natural, unprocessed and plant based foods. Meat, especially pork and shellfish, are avoided because they are considered impure. Those following the Ital diet don’t consume artificial sweeteners, preservatives or chemicals, and even omit salt from their diet. Herbs, spices and hot peppers are used to season food instead of additives. Alcohol and caffeine are also purposefully avoided , as they are seen to be harmful to the human body. The Ital diet is not only a way of eating but a spiritual practice that aligns with the Rastafarian philosophy of purity, natural living, and harmony with the Earth. While the degree of adherence can vary among individuals, the Ital lifestyle reflects a deep respect for the body as a temple and the interconnectedness of life.

African Identity - Rastafarianism promotes liberation, freedom and celebration of black identity and African culture. It is important to practice Afrocentric traditions and wear clothing symbolic of that, like headwraps and dashikis made with natural fabric. Red, gold and green are worn to represent the Ethiopian flag. 

 Rastafarians use the lion symbol as a representation of strength, courage, and African pride, rooted in biblical and cultural significance. The Lion of Judah, a key emblem in Rastafarianism, is tied to the lineage of Haile Selassie I, who is believed to be a descendant of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. The lion also appears on the Ethiopian flag and is associated with Selassie's titles, such as "Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah." For Rastas, the lion symbolizes their fight against oppression, their connection to Africa, and their spiritual devotion to Jah (God) 

 Through their teachings and practices, Rastafarians actively reject Eurocentric narratives of African inferiority, instead promoting narratives of resilience, power, and ingenuity. Many Rastafarians advocate for a physical or spiritual return to Africa. Some have migrated to Ethiopia or other African nations as an act of repatriation and solidarity with their ancestral land. 

Biblical Roots - Some people recognize Rastafarianism as an Abrahamic religion, since Rastas recognize the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as Jah. They also believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ but maintain that those teachings have been warped and misinterpreted to serve colonial and oppressive agendas. Rastafarians often reinterpret biblical stories through an Afrocentric lens, viewing the Bible as a guide to liberation and justice for African people. Central to their belief is the idea that Haile Selassie I is the second coming of Christ, fulfilling prophecies in books like Revelation and Psalms, and that Ethiopia is the Promised Land mentioned in scripture.

Dreadlocks - One of the most recognizable symbols of Rastafarianism is the wearing of dreadlocks. For Rastas, hair is viewed as a sacred connection to the divine, and cutting it is believed to sever this spiritual link, limiting heavenly enrichment. This belief aligns with biblical references, such as the Nazarite vow in Numbers 6:5, which calls for abstaining from cutting one’s hair as a sign of devotion to God. Similarly, this practice echoes traditions like those in Orthodox Judaism, where men refrain from cutting their sideburns. Beyond the spiritual aspect, dreadlocks also symbolize Rastafarians’ resistance to Babylon and their pride in African identity. This practice emphasizes the importance of maintaining the body in its natural, unaltered state as a temple of Jah.

Iyaric Speech - Rastafarians use Iyaric, a distinct dialect that reflects their spiritual beliefs and cultural pride. Rooted in the rejection of oppressive language, Iyaric replaces words and phrases that are seen as disempowering with ones that affirm positivity and connection to Jah. For example, the word “I” is central in Iyaric, symbolizing unity and self-empowerment; phrases like “I and I” emphasize the collective bond between individuals and Jah. Words such as “oppression” are rephrased as “downpression” to reject the negative connotation of being “pressed down.” Iyaric speech is more than a linguistic choice; it’s a deliberate act of resistance against Babylon and a way of reclaiming identity and cultural autonomy.

What Are the Sects of Rastafarianism and How Do They Differ?

Different denominations of Rastafarianism are called “mansions” and the three most recognized are the Nyabinghi Order, The Twelve Tribes of Israel, and the Bobo Ashanti. Every Rasta uses their own intuition to dictate how they practice Rastafarianism, so each tradition or tenet varies between individuals.

Nyabinghi Order

The Nyabinghi Order is the oldest, most traditional, and widely practiced mansion of Rastafarianism, deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural foundations of the movement. This order places a profound emphasis on meditation, prayer, chanting, and the rhythmic power of drumming. The name "Nyabinghi" originates from a legendary African spirit woman, believed to have possessed women who played key roles in the armed resistance against European colonial rule in the early 1900s.

Nyabinghi practitioners hold sacred gatherings known as "Groundations," where they honor Jah through communal songs and drumming. The drum, a central element of these ceremonies, symbolizes their enduring connection to Africa. These Rastas strictly adhere to Ital lifestyle principles, emphasizing natural and holistic living while firmly rejecting materialism. The Nyabinghi Order embodies a harmonious blend of spirituality, cultural pride, and resistance to oppression.

Bobo Ashanti

The Bobo Ashanti mansion is considered the strictest sect of Rastafarianism and was founded by Edward Charles Edwards in 1958. Edwards was severely beaten by Jamaican authorities when he led protests for the liberation of the Jamaican people who descended from slavery, the period called “groundation”. He then established the Bobo Ashanti mansion of Rastafari, with a community in Kingston that then moved to Bull Bay. The Bobos are easily distinguishable from other Rastafarians because they wrap their dreadlocks in a turban and wear long robes. Bobos follow uncompromising rules of the Ital diet. They have additional restrictions such as avoiding eating mangos and sugarcane, and consuming ingredients from locally sourced farms. Sugarcane is not only an overstimulating addition to food, but it is directly tied in the tyranical exploitation of Caribbean people. They also do regular fasting, abstaining from eating to purge the body of impurities and connect to Jah. 

   The Bobo Ashanti are considered to be the priesthood of Rastafarianism. Bull Bay is still a devout and condensed community of Bobo Ashanti practitioners with free shelter, food and education. They hold themselves up to a strict practice of Rasta, and often look down on those who do not adhere to the traditional rules of veganism and gender roles. The Bobo Ashanti do consume marijuana, however prefer to use it more intentionally rather than recreationally. They call it “holy herb” and it is used as a spiritual sacrament rather than an indulgence. It is normally smoked during worship or meditation. Overall, the Bobo Ashanti are the most disciplined mansion of Rasta. 

Twelve Tribes of Israel

The Twelve Tribes of Israel mansion, founded in 1968 by Vernon Carrington (Prophet Gad), is one of the most organized and inclusive Rastafarian sects. Members are encouraged to read the Bible daily, from Genesis to Revelation, for spiritual growth. Unlike other Rastafarian mansions, the Twelve Tribes embrace a flexible lifestyle, allowing personal choices such as eating meat, with a less rigid approach to Ital living. Members are identified with a tribe of Israel based on their birth month, fostering unity and purpose.

The Twelve Tribes emphasize the repatriation of African descendants to Ethiopia while promoting inclusivity and engaging in reggae music to spread their messages of liberation and spirituality. Figures like Bob Marley, a member of the mansion, have strengthened their connection to reggae culture. Cannabis is used spiritually, similar to the Bobo Ashanti, to aid meditation and connect with Jah.

Their belief in being descendants of the lost tribes of Israel ties African identity to biblical narratives of liberation. While this has sparked some controversy over the "true Israelites" narrative, the belief is rooted in empowerment, not hostility. These teachings celebrate unity and resistance, emphasizing the importance of sensitivity to avoid perpetuating misunderstandings.

Why Do Rastas Smoke Cannabis?

Perhaps the most common understanding of Rastafarianism is the use of marijuana, or ganja, as it is commonly referred to. To be clear, smoking cannabis is not necessary to practice Rasta and not every Rasta smokes weed. It is often referred to as “the holy herb” because most Rastafarians use cannabis to strenghten their spiritual connection. It expands the mind, eases medication and calms the body. It is not only smoked, but consumed as tea, a cooking spice, or used as a topical. When it is smoked, Rastas typically roll a big joint of ganja while praying to Jah, but chillums are another common form of consumption. Rastas state that cannabis is a gift from Heaven, and argue the Bible emphasized this statement in Genesis, Psalms and Revelation.

It is difficult to say exactly how cannabis arrived in Jamaica, but many researchers believe it comes from far away - India. In 1655, the British government sent enslaved people from West Africa to work in the brutal sugarcane fields. The British continued their terrible colonial rule in Jamaica even after slavery was outlawed in 1810. The enslaved peoples revolted in 1833 and burned down plantations in protest. In 1838, slavery was overthrown in Jamaica, but the British plantation owners still needed labor. They had over 36,000 indentured servants from India travel to Jamaica to harvest sugarcane, and on their way over they brought seeds. Many of these servants were from the Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Bengal regions of Northern India, so it is more likely that Jamaican weed has Indian roots. This would mean the famed Jamaican landrace Lamb’s Bread, or Lamb’s Breath, has connection to strains like Parvati and other Indian landrace strains. 

Many British colonialists were upset by the arrival and enjoyment of cannabis, and burnt down acres of cultivated cannabis in Jamaica. Due to marijuana being illegal in Jamaica, and most parts of the world, Rastafarians see using it as a rejection of Babylon and the corrupt capitalist world. They see smoking the naturally occurring herb as practicing their connection to the divine. In 2015, Jamaica decriminalized possessing up to two ounces of marijuana. The island of Barbados did even better in 2019, legalizing cannabis use for Rastafari and giving 60 acres of land for the cultivation of cannabis. For Rastafarians, cannabis is not just a plant; it’s a spiritual bridge, a healer, and a powerful emblem of liberation. It is vital to honor their resistance to conformity, as they continued smoking ganja despite what their government told them was correct. Had it not been for the pioneering of Rastas, we would probably never have legal weed in Salem Massachusetts! 

How Has Rastafarianism Influenced Culture Around the World?

Reggae music, which emerged in Jamaica during the late 1960s, owes much of its foundation to the spiritual and rhythmic practices of the Nyabinghi Order of Rastafarianism. The Nyabinghi tradition emphasizes the use of drumming, chanting, and singing as sacred acts of worship, with the drum symbolizing a powerful connection to Africa and a tool for honoring Jah. These ceremonial rhythms, often performed during Groundations, inspired the signature offbeat patterns and heavy basslines that define reggae music. As Rastafarianism spread, its spiritual chants and percussive beats evolved into ska, rocksteady, and eventually reggae, blending with social commentary and stories of liberation. Nyabinghi drumming remains the heartbeat of reggae, serving as a reminder of its deep spiritual and cultural roots in Rastafarianism.

Bob Marley, the legendary reggae icon and devoted Rastafarian, played a monumental role in bringing both reggae music and Rastafarianism to the global stage. Deeply connected to the Twelve Tribes of Israel mansion of Rastafarianism, Marley embodied their emphasis on spirituality, biblical teachings, and cultural liberation. Through his soulful lyrics and powerful performances, Marley shared messages of love, unity, and resistance to oppression, making him a voice for the marginalized and a spiritual ambassador of Jah's teachings. A known enthusiast of cannabis, Marley often praised its spiritual benefits. His music and lifestyle intertwined seamlessly with Rastafarian values, and through songs like One Love and Redemption Song, Marley spread a message of peace and liberation that continues to resonate worldwide. To this day, he remains a symbol of spiritual awakening, cultural pride, and the enduring connection between reggae, Rastafarianism, and the "holy herb." He famously enjoyed the Jamaican strain Lamb’s Bread (or Lamb’s Breath), which he described as uplifting and inspiring. We currently have this legendary strain available at our seaside Salem Dispensary, so if you want to smoke like Bob Marley, pop in for a slice of this invigorating sativa.

Reggae songs like Peter Tosh’s Legalize It directly advocated for the decriminalization of marijuana, framing it as a natural, medicinal, and spiritual plant rather than a harmful drug. Marley’s public use of cannabis, paired with his explanation of its role as a sacrament in Rastafarianism, challenged negative stereotypes and opened conversations about cannabis in mainstream media.

The music’s association with peace, spirituality, and rebellion against oppressive systems also reframed cannabis as a symbol of liberation rather than deviance. While not universally accepted, reggae significantly influenced perceptions of cannabis use, particularly among counterculture movements in the U.S. and Europe, and laid the groundwork for modern advocacy for legalization and acceptance.

How is Rastafarianism Practiced Today?

Rastafarianism continues to inspire millions worldwide. Rooted in principles of liberation, African heritage, and unity, Rastafarianism promotes a natural lifestyle, reverence for nature, and the pursuit of spiritual connection with Jah (God). Its influence remains profound, especially in music, cultural pride, and advocacy for the oppressed.

However, like many ideologies, Rastafarianism grapples with critiques, particularly regarding the concepts of "Black supremacy" and gender roles. Early Rastafarian teachings sometimes emphasized the superiority of Black people in response to the systemic dehumanization faced during colonial rule. While this stance was rooted in empowering the oppressed, it can risk alienating other groups. Similarly, traditional Rastafarian gender roles often relegate women (or "queens") to subordinate positions, emphasizing domesticity and modesty, which many criticize as outdated and restrictive.

Despite these challenges, many contemporary Rastafarians are reinterpreting the movement’s principles to align with modern values of inclusivity and gender equality. Younger generations are focusing on the core tenets of unity, justice, and spiritual freedom, while addressing problematic aspects through dialogue and reform.

At its heart, Rastafarianism remains a powerful ideology that champions liberation, cultural pride, and living harmoniously with nature. Its evolution highlights its resilience and potential to adapt while maintaining its spiritual essence in an ever-changing world.

Why Understanding Rastafarianism Matters

Understanding Rastafarianism is essential for fostering cultural and spiritual awareness because it offers profound insights into themes of liberation, resistance, and connection to African heritage. As a movement born from the struggles of colonized and oppressed peoples, Rastafarianism serves as a lens through which we can examine resilience, cultural identity, and the power of spirituality to inspire change. Its teachings challenge societal norms and encourage harmony with nature, promoting values that resonate universally, such as peace, love, and justice.

You can engage with Rastafarianism by exploring its history, music, and spiritual practices. Listening to reggae music—especially artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Burning Spear—provides a gateway into the movement’s messages. Visiting Rastafarian communities or museums, such as the Rastafari Indigenous Village in Jamaica, can offer deeper cultural understanding. Reading works by Rastafarian scholars or exploring texts like the Bible through the lens of Rasta teachings are also meaningful ways to learn. Above all, engaging with respect and curiosity is key.

Rastafarianism stands as a testament to the strength of cultural and spiritual resistance. While it faces critiques around gender roles and certain interpretations, its core principles of liberation, unity, and living harmoniously remain deeply relevant today. By understanding and engaging with Rastafarianism, readers can not only appreciate its impact on global cannabis culture but also draw inspiration from its profound spiritual and social teachings. It invites us to reflect on justice, equality, and the ways we connect with each other.

Fly high!