CULTURAL AWARENESS TRAINING
MAJOR RELIGIONS AND BELIEFS PRACTISED IN THE UK
Rastafarianism
Rastafarianism is based on ‘principles’ rather than ‘beliefs’, but has
links with Judaism and early Christianity. Obedience to the Ten
Commandments is important and both the Bible and Ethiopian history
are closely studied. The religion originated in Jamaica in 1930.
Marcus Garvey was born in Jamaica in 1887 and died in London in 1940.
He laid the foundations for Rastafarianism by devoting much of his life
to helping people. He founded the African Orthodox Church in 1921.
Beliefs
Rastafarians believe that the late Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia is the
true God. Called Ras Tafari, he died in 1975.
The Nazarite Vow of Separation is followed closely and prohibits the cutting of
hair. It also emphasises the celebration of life rather than death, and
therefore attendance at funerals is not of great importance.
Many British Rastafarians belong to the Twelve Tribes of Israel, which seeks
to educate the young in the advancement of Black people, the promotion of
African and Ethiopian culture and the liberation of Africa.
Dietary Practices
Rastafarians are very particular about what they eat and prefer to eat as
naturally as possible. The term used as a model for idealised lifestyle of
Rastafarians is 'ITAL' meaning natural food and encourages a salt less
vegetarian diet. Therefore Rastafarians shun eating the flesh of scavengers'
like pork or shellfish, yet fish & fowl (e.g. chicken) are acceptable with many.
Alcohol is discouraged. Those attending 'Nyabinghi' ceremonies are expected
to observe a strict ITAL diet for the duration, which can last up to a week.
Dress
The most identifiable characteristic of Rastafarians is their braided hair – worn
in imitation of the Masai warriors in Ethiopia, known as Dreadlocks, Locks,
Dreads, Janks, etc. Many do not wear their hair in ‘locks’ for domestic or
economic reasons, but will identify themselves through the use of the
Movement’s colours. These are: Red - for blood of Africa’s children shed for freedom, dignity and liberty
Gold - for the wealth and richness of Africa.
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Green - for the luxuriance, fertility and greenness of Africa.
Black - for the colour of the noble, ancient and distinguished African people.
A Tam or Crown (a woolly hat) is often worn especially in the colours of red,
gold and green. Women must keep their heads covered if receiving visitors or
during worship, although men uncover their heads during worship. As
required by Rastafarian beliefs, women conceal their bodies and often wear
long colourful dresses in earthy Rasta colours. Trousers are not acceptable
and makeup is not encouraged.
Festivals
The most important festival celebrated by Rastafarians is Haile Selassie’s
birthday on 23rd. July & his coronation on 2nd. November. Marcus Garvey’s
birthday on 17th. August is also celebrated.
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