There is significant variation within the Rastafari movement and no formal organization. Some Rastafarians see Rasta more as a way of life than a religion. But uniting the diverse movement is belief in the divinity and/or messiahship of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie I, the influence of Jamaican culture, resistance of oppression, and pride in African heritage.
Facts:
- Date founded:
- Generally said to be November 2, 1930, the year Emperor Hailie Selassie I (1892-1975) was crowned, but based in a movement of the 1920s.
- Place founded:
- Jamaica
- Founder:
- Marcus Garvey (1887-1940), a black Jamaican who taught in the 1920s and is considered a second John the Baptist.
- Adherents:
- About 1 million worldwide
- Rasta Holidays
- November 2 - the coronation of Selassie
- January 6 - ceremonial birthday of Selassie
- April 21 - Selassie's visit to Jamaica
- July 23 - Selassie's personal birthday
- August 1 - emancipation from slavery
- August 17 - Marcus Garvey's birthday
- One of the most visible practices of Rastafarians is the wearing of one's hair in dreadlocks. Dreadlocks have several purposes and layers of meaning for Rastafarians, including:
- the biblical command not to cut one's hair (Leviticus 21:5)
- the appearance of the lion's mane, representing strength, Africa, Ethiopia, and the Lion of Judah
- naturalness and simplicity, which are associated with Africa
- the Rasta's roots in Africa
Even Dogs are wearing them..lol
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