Rastafari in North Alabama
Rastafari is a spiritual movement that emerged among Afro-Jamaicans in the 1930s. Rastafari revere Jah, God, and honor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, whom many regard as the returned messiah, while also drawing on the Bible, African heritage and a vision of dignity and liberation. Rastafari communities in the United States gather for reasoning and worship, and NAWD is ready to list gatherings in North Alabama.
Beliefs and ways of living
Rastafari emphasize Jah's presence in each person, respect for the earth and the oneness of humankind. Many keep an ital diet that favors natural, unprocessed, plant-based foods, wear their hair in locks as a sign of covenant, and look to Africa as a spiritual homeland. Practice varies among the movement's houses, including Nyahbinghi, Bobo Ashanti and the Twelve Tribes of Israel.
Reasoning and worship
Gatherings often center on reasoning, an open spiritual discussion, together with drumming, chanting, Bible readings and shared meals. Reggae music carries many of the movement's messages of peace and justice.
Sacred days
Observances include Ethiopian Christmas in January, Grounation Day in April, the birthday of Haile Selassie in July, Ethiopian New Year in September and Coronation Day in November.
Visiting
Be respectful and ask first. Some gatherings are open to the public and others are not, and customs differ between houses.