Definition

Proper noun: A religious movement originating in Jamaica in the 1930s, centered on the belief that Haile Selassie I (whose pre-imperial name was Ras Tafari) is a divine figure, the Messiah who will lead people of African descent to freedom and redemption, with Africa (particularly Ethiopia) regarded as the Promised Land.

Usage

• As a subject: Rastafarianism emerged as a response to colonial oppression.
• As an object: He studied the principles of Rastafarianism.
• With a possessive: Rastafarianism's influence on music is profound.

Examples

• Rastafarianism emphasizes spiritual use of cannabis and natural living.
• The core tenets of Rastafarianism include the rejection of Western society, which is seen as "Babylon."
• Many followers of Rastafarianism wear their hair in dreadlocks as a symbol of their faith.

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Impact: The term is often discussed in contexts of post-colonial identity, African diaspora studies, and the globalization of religious movements.
• Theological Context: Within Rastafarianism, the concept of "Zion" represents a utopian state of unity, peace, and freedom, contrasted with "Babylon," the corrupt and oppressive system.

Variants and Related Words

• Rastafarian (noun): An adherent of Rastafarianism. (e.g., The Rastafarian spoke about his beliefs.)
• Rastafarian (adjective): Pertaining to Rastafarianism or its followers. (e.g., Rastafarian culture.)
• Rasta (noun, informal): A common shortening for a Rastafarian.
• Iyaric: The conscious, deliberate dialect of English used by some Rastafarians, also known as "Dread Talk."

Synonyms

• Rastafari: Often used interchangeably with Rastafarianism to name the movement itself.
• The Rastafarian movement: A descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Livity: The Rastafarian concept of righteous, natural living in harmony with life force.
• Ital: A vital concept in Rastafarianism referring to natural, pure, and unprocessed food, in line with a natural lifestyle.
• Reasoning: A central practice in Rastafarianism involving a gathering for discussion, prayer, and communal cannabis consumption to gain wisdom.

Noun

1. a religious cult based on a belief that Ras Tafari (Haile Selassie) is the Messiah and that Africa (especially Ethiopia) is the Promised Land