Definition

Proper noun: - Emperor of Ethiopia; worshipped by Rastafarians (1892-1975): Ras Tafari Makonnen was the birth name of Haile Selassie I, the last Emperor of Ethiopia. He is a central figure in the Rastafari movement, where he is revered as a messianic figure, the incarnation of God (Jah), and a symbol of African pride and liberation.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Ras Tafari Makonnen was crowned Emperor Haile Selassie I in 1930.
  • Many Rastafarians study the life and speeches of Ras Tafari Makonnen.
  • The coronation of Ras Tafari Makonnen was a significant event in Ethiopian history.

Advanced Usage

• As a religious and cultural symbol: The name "Ras Tafari Makonnen" is not only a historical reference but also carries deep religious significance within the Rastafari faith, representing the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
  • The teachings of the Rastafari movement are deeply connected to the figure of Ras Tafari Makonnen.

Variants and Related Words

• Haile Selassie I (proper noun): The regnal name adopted by Ras Tafari Makonnen upon his coronation.
  • Haile Selassie I was a prominent 20th-century statesman.
• Ras Tafari (proper noun): A shortened form of the name, commonly used.
  • The movement takes its name from Ras Tafari.
• Jah (noun): In Rastafari, a term for God, often identified with Haile Selassie I (Ras Tafari Makonnen).
  • Rastafarians praise Jah in their prayers and songs.

Synonyms

• Haile Selassie: The most common synonym, referring to the same person by his imperial title.
• The Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah: One of his official titles, rich in biblical and royal symbolism.
• King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Elect of God: Another of his official imperial titles.

Related Terms and Concepts

• Rastafari / Rastafarianism (noun): The Afrocentric religious movement that venerates Haile Selassie I (Ras Tafari Makonnen).
  • Rastafari emerged in Jamaica in the 1930s.
• Zion (noun): In Rastafari, a symbol of a utopian paradise, often associated with Africa and the promise linked to the reign of Ras Tafari Makonnen.

Noun

1. emperor of Ethiopia; worshipped by Rastafarians (1892-1975)