The Rastafarian language grew out of the Rastafarian movement, a religious and social movement based in Jamaica. Though largely unorganized, the Rastafarians are united on several strong beliefs:  The belief in the beauty of black people’s African heritage. The belief that Ras Tafari Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia, is the Biblical Messiah. He is also referred to as the Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah. This is why the lion is seen as a powerful symbol by Rastafarians. The belief in repatriation to Ethiopia, also referred to by Rastas as “Zion”, the true home and redemption of black people. The belief in the eventual fall of “Babylon”, the corrupt world of the white man, and a reversal of the power structure of slave and master. The Bible is the main holy text for Rastafarians. This is why Bob Marley’s lyrics, for example, are full of Biblical references to Exodus and the Holy Land.  Rastas take Biblical study very seriously and will cite and discuss scriptural passages. They believe the scriptures tell the true story of the black man’s history. They also feel Christian ministers have misled people by providing incorrect interpretations of the Bible, especially the use of the Bible to justify slavery. Rastas also refer to other official documents like The Promised Key and The Living Testament of Rasta-for-I. But most scholars agree no central doctrine of Rastafarian exists, as Rastas are against following organized systems or schools of thought. Instead, Rastas believe a person should engage in reflection and interpretation of their experience and form their own personal convictions about the Rasta beliefs. Rastas use the word “I-tal” to refer to food that is in its natural state. "I-tal" food has not touched modern chemicals and contains no preservatives, condiments, or salt.  Most Rastas follow the “I-tal” practice and some are vegetarians. Meat-eating Rastas usually abstain from eating pork, as pigs are seen as scavengers of the dead. Alcohol, coffee, milk, and flavored beverages like soda are also considered not “I-tal”. Often, Rastas will say: “Man a rasta man, mi only nyam ital food.” This translates to: “I am a Rastafarian, I only eat natural foods.” We all know the familiar image of a Rasta with dreads smoking weed or “herb” as Rastas call it. Besides making you feel “irie”, the smoking of marijuana or “ganja” plays an important role in Rastafarian life. It is considered a sacred ritual in Rasta culture. For Rastas, the “holy herb” is highly valued for its physical, psychological, and therapeutic powers. Rastas embrace the idea of an “everliving life” instead of an “everlasting life”. They do not believe in the end of life, or “last” part of life. Instead, Rastas believe in a continually living life, or having an immortal life. This does not necessary mean Rastas believe they will live forever. But they consider “everlasting life” a negative outlook on the fullness or “living”-ness of life.
تعلم تاريخ اللغة. اعرف جوهر الحركة الرستفارية. تعلم  أهمية "I-tal". تعلم دور القنب الهندي (الحشيش) في الثقافة الرستفارية. تعرف على فكرة "الحياة الأبدية".