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Rastafarianism: Jamaica
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Rastafarianism is a way of life that has emerged in response to the oppression, poverty, and colonialism imposed upon African peoples by the dominant, Western, white culture. The Rastas, though, have not accepted the view of nature that the dominant has handed them, rather, they have chosen to follow in the traditions of their ancestors. The African tradition in Jamaica adheres to the principles of animism, where all things are believed to have a spirit. This doctrine is essential to the development of a World view that is encompassing of the natural laws. Through the Afro-Jamaican heritage and various influences the Rastafarians have gained a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the Earth. Their beliefs, lifestyles, and rituals are a reflection of this appreciation.
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Rastafarianism is a religious movement (especially popular in Jamaica - 5% to 10% of the population) that is less than a century old. It had its beginnings in a black, political movement that started in the 1920s/30s.
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By the end of the 20th century, Rastafarianism had toned down some of its previously strict rules. Homosexuality, for example, is no longer as despised as it once was, and gay-bashing in Jamaica has decreased from its legendary highs of the 1970s. In addition, women have become more important in the functioning of Rastafarianism. Previously, menstruating women were not allowed to cook, and were often excluded from religious and social ceremonies. To a large degree, women are given much more freedom now and contribute greatly to the religion.
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Despite the lack of a central authority, Rastafarianism is guided by key tenets of faith. The Bible is the main religious text of Rastafarianism. The African race is one of God's chosen races, one of the twelve Tribes of Israel. Jamaica is the biblical 'Babylon', although all the places to which Africans have been exiled are ... included. 'Babylon' is the place which will never see spiritual reform and liberation. 'Jah' is believed to reside in each person and there is 'Oneness' between the individual and God.
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Bob Marley (1945-1981) was a Jamaican who helped popularize Rastafarianism during the 1970s. He and his musical group (the Wailers) blended traditional Jamaican music with various other forms (e.g., American rhythm and blues) into a style known as Reggae (though some traditional Rastas consider this form of music as a “sellout” to white “Babylon”).
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