THE RASTAFARI CODE OF CONDUCT

THE RASTAFARI CODE OF CONDUCT

    Greetings and love in the Names of His and Her Majesties Emperor Haile Selassie the 1st and Empress Menen Asfaw.

   Bredren and Sistren, Rastafari Administrators, Houses and Organizations, The Rastafari Code of Conduct is a general guideline of acceptable practice, covering a broad spectrum of belief within the movement. As such it outlines the tenets of a unique lifestyle or ‘livity’ which has evolved organically from the teachings and examples of the Elders. This ‘livity’ has been passed on through successive generations of Rastafari since the inception of the movement in the 1930s.Today this evolution of practice continues alongside the worldwide spread of the movement. Though the central tenets of the movement remain immutable and unchanging, revisions and updates are meant to keep ‘livity’ alive and functional, rather than dogmatic and doctrinaire. The very spread and maturity of the movement demands a level of documentation that would hitherto have seemed unnecessary – both for adherents of the faith, converts and sympathizers, as well as the growing numbers of students, scholars, academics, religious individuals and groups, and ordinary everyday people who seek to know more about the Rastafari way of life.

   The Code is the result of widespread consultation with individuals and groups within the movement to arrive at a summary statement on Rastafari morals, values and the overarching principles of a ‘decent way of life’. This code is intended for the Rastafari Nation, to be observed as a moral guide to the integrity and steadfastness of the Nation. Though many may not consider it to be a part of their daily ‘livity’, it is however, just a guide. The framing of this code is five years in the making, and many things were taking into consideration. The framers have considered and debated the different ideas and opinions of everyone who contributed to its development, whether they were done via e-mail, or internet web forums, or the telephone and meetings. The recommended Rastafari Code of Conduct was ratified in July–August 2008 at the Global Nyah Binghi Consultation held at the NyahBinghi Grounds, Scott Pass, Clarendon Jamaica, by the Nyah Binghi Ancient Council and the Nyah Binghi delegates from across the Caribbean, Africa and the USA. Further collective input was made by the Nyah Binghi National Council UK in 2010. He who should be a leader must pay the price of self–discipline and moral restraint. This entails the correction and improvement of his personal character, the checking of passions and desires and an exemplary control of one’s bodily needs and desires.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

The following Administrators, delegates, along with members of the Rastafari family, approved the Rastafari Code of Conduct at the Global Nyah Binghi Consultation July 22nd-30th at Scotts Pass NyahBinghi Center, Clarendon, Jamaica.

Ancient Council

High Priest George Irons

Bongo Tawney – Chair, Nyah Binghi

Bongo Ken – Secretary Nyah Binghi

NYAHBINGHI PRIESTS

Bongo Shephan

Bongo Zato

NYAH BINGI ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCIL

Ras Flako Tafari

Ras Sasse

Ras Ivi

Ras Garth

Jr Negus

Bongo Joe

Bongo Manie

Ras Shaka

Ras Caver

Ras Ista J

NYAHBINGHI ANCIENTS

Bongo Roy

Ras Balewa

Ras Iya-V

Ras Irie Lion

Bongo Mabrack

Bongo Wake I

Ras Muggy Roy

Bongo Job

Mama Fiya

Sister Yanzie

INTERNATIONAL GUESTS

Bongo Jack (Trinidad)

Bongo Grease (Trinidad)

Sister Lyris Walker (Trinidad)

Bongo Italo Tafari (Barbados)

Sis IIene (Barbados)

Ras Bakarai (Barbados)

Sister Eileen (Barbados)

Prince Nan Nan (Barbados)

Ras Raffiki (Barbados)

James Morrel (Barbados)

Mama Kafe’ (Cote D’Ivoire)

Dawta InI (Maryland)

RasTafari Tazaddi (St Criox)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    Special thanks to Qadamawi Haile Selassie and Empress Menen for inspiration, wise-mind, knowledge and overstanding so that InI can magnify Jah works in all the earth with good behavior, I-tegrity, honesty, and love.

   

    Extended gratitude to: Ethiopia-Het-Heru, Binghi Haiasi, Ras Jahaizel, Sister Mary Dread. The Ancient and Administrative Council of the Nyah Binghi along with all participants on the Code of Conduct Message Board, the NNC (UK), and to all others who have made their valuable contribution. 

Thank you very much indeed.

RasFlako Tafari

EDUCATION

    A strong nation and free nation can only base itself upon education. In order to make life worthwhile it is necessary to acquire other things that can only come about after acquisition of learning. Learning and technical training must be nurtured by faith in God, reverence for the human soul, and respect for the reasoning mind.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie.

SELF HELP

    The people themselves must come to realize their own difficulties in the development of their community and try to solve them by collective participation following an order of priority and taking their potentiality into account.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

HUMAN DIVERSITY

    The very diversity of the world’s people today constitutes one of mankind‘s greatest resources; the different philosophies with which nations approach their problems lead inevitably to a vast array of methods and techniques. These variations are necessary; for each people must find solutions which are responsive to its particular needs. Each nation must inevitably pursue that course best suited to its own unique characteristics. We seek Africa’s economic growth and development, the betterment of the way of life of Africans and all men.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

WHEREAS THE PEOPLE OF THE RASTAFARI NATION WORLDWIDE:

   

    Have affirmed that the Nation of Rastafari is founded on Principles that acknowledge the Divinity of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, Elect of God and Light of this World;

    

    Recognize that people remain free only when freedom is founded upon respect for identifiable spiritual and cultural values, faith in fundamental human rights and freedoms, in a world of free people, where the dignity of the human person and the equal and inalienable rights which all members of the human family are endowed with by their Creator are respected and maintained;

    

    Recognize that African liberation must be the primary concern of all Rastafari people;

    Desire that the Rastafari Code of Conduct should enshrine the abovementioned principles for ensuring the protection of InI fundamental practices, lifestyle, and freedoms;

      We (InI) declare that the following provisions shall embody the Code of Conduct of the Rastafari Nation.

    InI uphold the principles of African Unity, Justice, Peace, Love, Truth and Right, along with Freedom, and commit InI-selves whole-heartedly to strive for the cause of African liberation, Repatriation and Reparation, and to labour unceasingly towards the achievement of these goals.

InI also seek world peace and goodwill among all mankind, working always towards equality in world citizenship, and the upholding of the rule of international morality, collective security and global fraternity.

    InI celebrate and deem sacred the Birthday of H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I, 23rd July 1892, and the Coronation date of both the Emperor and Empress on 2nd November 1930, these being two major dates in the Rastafari calendar.

    At all gatherings of spiritual observance and solemn occasions, the rules and laws of the host Mansion or House shall apply, and should be observed by all ones in attendance. However, certain exemptions should be made for visitors to any such gathering according to the individual House or Mansion’s rules. Provision should be made to accommodate visitors who do not belong to any House

or Mansion (eg. Dress-code, etc.)

    All are advised that the Sacred Herb (I-cense) may be burnt in an incense pot/altar, for the cleansing of the tabernacle and for sanctification of the space. A smoking room should also be made available for personal use (as not every one may wish to full-take in smoking). No drugs are allowed to be imbibed, consumed, or smoked at such events.

    All attendees should be modestly attired, adhering to the dress code of the particular House or Mansion. Similarly, conduct should be seemly, peaceable, and solemn as befits such occasions.

    Only brethren are allowed on harps (drums)at Nyah Binghi ceremonial programs called” Ises.” Whereas the Sistrens are allowed play shakers and other hand-held rhythmic instruments. At non ceremonial programs the Sisters are permitted to play harps in their own groups eg The Empress Menen Liberators in Jamaica.

    All are advised and expected to abide by the observances of the officiating priests and elders.

COMMITMENT TO AFRICAN UPLIFTMENT

    Domestically, we can build strong and happy and resourceful societies. Internationally, we can force the end of oppression of man by man and nation by nation. We can bring about the security and mutual trust which will open the way to the greater human achievements for which the needs of mankind now cry out. 

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

RESPONSIBILITY TO GLOBAL FELLOWSHIP AND WORLD PEACE

    Let us not bemuse ourselves with the notion that it is any more possible to legislate equality, for these matters concern attitudes and values over which intellect sadly exercises but little control. Let us not recoil in hatred against those who, even while protecting their freedom from bias and prejudice, reveal by their actions that the poison of discrimination has left its lasting effects, and by this reaction reveal that we, no less than they, are prey to unreasoning emotion, that we, no less than they, are susceptible to that virus which is called intolerance.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

    Peace and love – the original greeting of the Rastafari elders summarizes the fundamental attitude and motivation of the movement. The ethos of harmonious goodwill towards humankind also extends to all living creatures in the universe.

    The Rastafari family should at all times seek to maintain the discipline of love for InI fellow men and women, knowing that the healing of Africa is the pathway to global peace and the brotherhood of man. The virtues of tolerance, respect and fraternity should always be hallmarks of InI interaction with each other, with Africans, and with the global community of nations. Rastafari is a nation scattered among nations, and by our orderly conduct and behavior InI become a light to the entire world.

    We must become something we have never been and for which our education and experience have ill prepared us. We must become bigger than we have ever been: more courageous, greater in spirit, larger in outlook. We must become members of a new race, overcoming petty prejudice, owing our ultimate allegiance not to nations but to our fellow men within the human community.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

HEALTH AND DIETARY PRACTICE

    “There is nothing precious to man as a sound mind and a sound body and it is essential that the physical well—being of our people merits as much attention as its spiritual welfare. Good health is not only necessary for the well-being and happiness of man, but is also a fundamental prerequisite

for the progress and posterity of the nation. Just as education insures protection of man’s knowledge

in all fields of endeavor, so does proper medical care help in safe-guarding and promoting his physical and mental growth. The preservation of health is a duty. Few seem conscious

that there is such a thing as physical morality”

Herbert Spencer

    Natural and holistic methods of health care are highly recommended. However, in instances where the circumstances may be so life-threatening that surgery may be necessary, it would be advisable to seek conventional medical help. It is recommended that the Rastafari people commit to eating healthy natural foods and follow the holistic principles of living, in keeping with Rastafari traditions and

customs. Rastafari who accept a more holistic and natureoriented lifestyle are the ones living in harmony with the earth. The highest form of dietary practice is the consumption of naturally grown foods. Ital diet cleanses Ones should abstain from:

-Animal products and by-products

-Processed foods and Genetically Modified foods

-Sodium salt

    The use of salt-free and natural herb seasonings is recommended. (In some cultures around the world seafood is eaten as part of the dietary custom. It is a fact that some Rastafari are fishermen and partake of their catch. However, seafoods that are scavengers should be avoided). Also to be avoided are:

- Drunkenness: The use of alcoholic beverages (all forms of beer, stouts and wines);

- The use and sale of Drugs (Legal or Illegal); [Drugs: meaning (and including) crack, cocaine, barbiturates, pills, pharmaceuticals, and any other synthetic commercially produced substances of like nature)

Suggested solution:

    Anyone found to be in violation of the above, i.e. drunkenness or drug abuse is advised to seek professional counseling and be prepared to stop. As we guarantee to each the right to worship as

he/she chooses, so we denounce the policy that sets man against man on the issue of religion.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

    This is as it should be, for when brothers or sisters quarrel, as it happens from time to time, they come together and discuss the issues concerned in a very open manner and attempt to arrive at a mutually agreed solution. It is natural for forty-one nations to have different problems. It is our duty to trash out our differences, and to reach a solution that will command our united stand. We should be aware, more than before, not to allow discord amongst us. We must close ranks and discharge our obligations in harmony and unity of vision and purpose.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

    In the event of disputes, the parties involved should be taken before a Grievance Committee of the Organization or Mansion that they belong to. Evidence that is collected, should then determine the resolution and/or disciplinary action by the Grievance Committee. Failing resolution by the Grievance Committee, the evidence collected on the matter should be turned over to the executive administration of said Organization or Mansion.

NON-MANSION

    Rastafari (ones) who do not belong to any organization or Mansion are advised to take their disputes to any of the existing Mansions or organizations of their choosing.

UNRESOLVED DISPUTES

    In an instance where there is no resolution by the Grievance Committee, the following is recommended:

Suspension for a minimum of 3 months, after which the case will be reviewed. After the review a final decision will be taken by the Grievance Committee or administration of said Mansion or Organization. Rastafari (ones) who do not belong to any Mansion or organization, should abide by the final decision of the Mansion or Organization that they have chosen to air their grievance. In case of disputes of a violent nature, the matter should be referred to the appropriate local authorities for resolution. 

Ones should abstain from:

- Using the methods of justice of the State, except in extreme situations where the State law is

appropriate to dictate the outcome of the situation;

- Using methods of vigilante justice or any action that would endanger or threaten the security of

the Rastafari family..

Ones should abstain from:

- Using the methods of justice of the State, except in extreme situations where the State law is appropriate to dictate the outcome of the situation;

- Using methods of vigilante justice or any action that would endanger or threaten the security of

the Rastafari family.

Ones should not:

    Abuse, slander, carry tales, hearsay, or disgrace any Rastafari brethren, sistren, house, mansion, organization, or others, in public places, through Printed Press, Radio, Television, Internet, or any other communication media.

Ones should:

- Always respect the decision of the Council of Elders, I-ncients, Guardians of the Faith;
- Acknowledge the contributions of the Patriarchs, Matriarchs, and Founding Fathers of the

Faith;
- Never use the ancients to obtain money for personal benefits;

- Always acknowledge the contribution of African Leaders, African Liberators and Freedom Fighters, noting important dates and events in the African Calendar.

RASTAFARI REGGAE MUSICIANS, SINGERS, PROMOTERS, MCs & DJ’S

Should always:

- Maintain the roots and cultural lyrics of the music and the standard set by the pioneers who used the music to educate and uplift;

- Conduct themselves with integrity while on stage and off, which includes activities while on local or foreign tours;
- Consider making financial contribution to the social and economic development of the Rastafari Nation.

Ones should refrain from:

-Using the names of Qadamawi Haile Selassie and Empress Menen casually or in vain while on or off stage;

- Creating music and dance that trivializes a woman’s sexuality or tramples on her I-tegrity and selfworth, or influences ones to consider or commit acts of violence against her.;

- Creating music and lyrics that influence anyone to commit crimes against another;;

- Promoting music videos with lewd, sexually explicit or immoral behavior.

CONCERNING RIGHTS OF PASSAGE:

Birth (sanctification of newborns), marriage, passing and interment

Birth

Within some Houses (eg. Nyah Binghi) a ceremony has been ritualized to welcome and sanctify newborns in the community. This ceremony is conducted by an authorized Priest at a gathering,

where the infant is welcomed with special prayers, and is celebrated as a new member of the community with joyful chants and jubilation. [If the family of the newborn is not a member of

the House or Mansion and request such sanctification, the individuals involved must agree to accept

the fundamental teachings of Rastafari livity.)

Marriage

A marriage ceremony is also in the process of being established, with the intent that it may be

recognized as socially and legally binding within the community as well as the State.

Interment

A ceremonial order is now in place for the individual to be laid to rest, and for their earthly contribution to the Rastafari Nation to be remembered and celebrated. Cremation is now being considered as an acceptable final rite for ones who so desire. All ceremonies should be performed by a certified Rastafari Priest or Chaplin.

SEXUAL ACTIVITIES

The following practices are forbidden by Rastafari codes of moral behavior:

Homosexuality

Sodomy

Sex with children or animals

Rape

Oral Sex

Prostitution

Whoredom

Ones should avoid:

- Entering into a relationship knowingly aware that a person is already in an intimate situation

with another;

- Entering into a sexual or intimate relationship that may cause disharmony, grief or strife;

- Entering into a sexual or intimate relationship involving multiple partners;

- Displaying any activity in public that depicts sexual intent.

Princes and Princesses must trod out of Babylon
InI Ithiopians now stretch forth our hands unto Jah.
Oh Jah of Ithiopia, InI Ivine Majesty,
Thy Irits trod unto InI dwelling in the path of righteousness.
Lead InI.
Help InI to forgive, that InI must be forgiven.
Teach InI love, loyalty on earth, as It is in Mt Zion.
Endow InI with wise-mind, knowledge and over-standing to do thy will.
Thy blessings to InI be
That the hungry be fed, the naked clothed, the sick nourished, the aged protected, and the infants cared for.
Deliver InI from the hands of our enemies that InI must prove fruitful in these perilous days.
When our enemies are passed away and decayed in the depths of the sea, in the depths of the earth, in the belly of the beast, and in the lake of burning fire,
Oh give InI a place in thy Iver-living Kingman.
Through the powers of the King of Kings,
Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah,
Ilect of Himself and Light of the world
InI Ivine Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I
Jah, Rastafari !
First Incient King of Iration now and for Iver,
A Man, KIng Alpha and Queen Omega,
The beginning without end, the First and Forever,
The Protectorate of all human faith and Ruler of the Iniverse.
Thou art the High Priest of the Order of Melchisedek
Who liveth and reigneth for Iver.
So InI hail our Jah and King, Emperor Haile Selassie Jah Rastafari !
Almighty I Jah Rastafari ! Great and Thunderable I Jah Rastafari !

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

- 7TH January: Ethiopian Feast of the Nativity

- 1st March: Battle of Adowa

- 25th March: Empress Menen’s Earthday

- 18th April 1966: H.I.M.’s Visit to Trinidad and Tobago

- 21 April 1966: H.I.M.’s Visit to Jamaica

- Good Friday: The Coral Gardens Atrocity Anniversary Commemoration

- 25th May: African Liberation Day

- 16th June: The First Patriarch Leonard Howell’s Earthday

- 17th August: Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey’s Earthday

- 11th September: Ethiopian New Year

- 2ND November: His and Her Imperial Majesty’s Coronation

The tolerance of dissent and criticism within a Government proceeds from a single essential premise: that the Government exists to serve the people generally. Government servants, whether designated as representatives or not, have a trust to work for the general welfare.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

Domestically, we can build strong and happy and resourceful societies. internationally, we can force the end of oppression of man by man and nation by nation. We can bring about the security and mutual trust which will open the way to the greater human achievements for which the needs of mankind now cry out.

Qadamawi Haile Selassie

Liberate the minds of men and ultimately you will liberate the bodies of men.

Marcus Garvey

There is no force like success, and that is why the individual makes all effort to surround himself throughout life with the evidence of it; as of the individual, so should it be of the nation.

Marcus Garvey

A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.

Marcus Garvey

Liberate the minds of men and ultimately you will liberate the bodies of men.

Marcus Garvey

ETHIOPIAN EASTER

HOLY WEEK

In accordance with the chronology of the Gospel account of the last days of our Lord’s mortal life it is natural that the sacred Triduum of Thursday, Friday and Saturday developed. A special “Holy Week” became established in which all the faithful re-lived and received graces from the fundamental mysterious of redemption.

Palm Sunday or Hosanna is celebrated with proper ceremonies with palm, processions and special services. Then follows Holy Week, the week of Pains, the Himamat. For some, from Thursday afternoon until Easter morning no morsel of food nor a drop of water enters the mouth and three days are known as “Qanona”. The priests neither eat nor drink but remain in the churches singing and praying incessantly. No absolution is given.

MAUNDY THURSDAY is a special day on which in the Mass unleavened bread is used. For those who can, it is spent out of doors. When the fast is broken late in the afternoon no one eats ordinary bread, a mixture of special flour is compounded and boiled. A solemn Mass is celebrated on that day. The ceremony of washing the feet is conducted the same day in imitation of what our Lord did to the twelve Apostles at the Last Supper. All the faithful with clean souls should communicate on Holy Thursday.

GOOD FRIDAY. The solemn liturgical service of Good Friday is attended by thousands of believers. There is a sense of sorrow and desolation. All the symbols, images and instruments used in the passion of the Saviour are publicly exhibited in the church. Men and women go to church to prostrate themselves, remaining there from early morning till 3 p.m. the hour of the death of Jesus Christ. Believers confess their greater and lesser offenses to the confessor or sit reading their Psalter. It is believed that on Good Friday blood fell from Christ on the cross and dripped into the grave of Adam beneath and there rose up from the dead about 500 people; the thief on the left was sent into darkness but the one on the right went before Adam into Paradise. On this Friday the Devil was bound with cords and Christ descending to purgatory (seol) sent forth to paradise all the souls that were in darkness (Seol). Good Friday is a special day for confession.

HOLY SATURDAY is Qidame shur on which the good news went forth. Everyone who fasts passes the day and night in expectation. On this night before Easter many go to the Church and pass the night in making prayers and in prostration on clenched hands. Confession is heard on that day.

EASTER, the feast of feasts, is celebrated with special solemnity. The church is filled with fragrance of incense and myriad’s of lights. The clergy are arrayed in their best vestments. All the people hold lighted tapers. Greetings are exchanged, drums are beaten, hands are clapped and singing is heard everywhere: “our resurrection has come, hosanna.” Men are heard saying “O Lord Christ have mercy upon us.” They pray for a blessing “O God make it to be a festival of our good fortune and of our well being! Let us have another threshing floor and another year if thou wilt.” Letters or messages are exchanged between friends and the whole day is one of spiritual and physical feasting, a commemoration of the holiest occasion of all history – a truly blessed time when Christ rose from the dead.

Edited by Aymero W and Joachim M., The Ethiopian Orthodox Church, published by the Ethiopian Orthodox mission, Addis Ababa 1970.

GENNA ETHIOPIAN CHRISTMAS

The Ithiopian Calendar is seven years behind the Gregorian Calendar now used in the west.  Ethiopia, having never been colonised, still uses the Julian Calendar. The year is divided into 12 months of 30 days each, and a 13th month of five days (six days every leap year).

Ithiopian Christmas day is on January 7th of the Gregorian Calendar or Tahsas 29th of the Ithiopian Calendar. This is the date that Christmas was originally celebrated and still is in most Orthodox Christian troditions.

Ithiopian names for Christmas are Liddet, Genna and also Qiddus Bala Wald.

Lidet is preceded by a fast of 40 days. There are many fast days in the Orthodox Christian Calendar. Christians fast every Wednesday and Friday all year round. On fast days Ethiopians eat only one meal in the evening. This must not contain meat or dairy foods. Sometimes fish is also avoided.

After a large meal on Christmas Eve, Ithiopian Christians go to Church and spend the night praying. Modern Churches are designed in three concentric circles. Men and boys sit separately from women and girls. The choir sings from the outside circle. As the people enter the church they are given candles which are then lit. Everyone then walks around the church three times. The congregation remain standing for Mass which can last up to three hours.

Food eaten at Christmas is the standard Ithiopian menu of injera, a pancake like bread made from a local grain called tef, and wat, a spicy stew. The injera is used to scoop up the wat. The meal is served in beautifully decorated baskets.

Only the children receive presents. This is usually something simple such as clothes. Children also play a game at this time of year called Genna. It  is similar to hockey.

BREAK DE CHAINS

Blessed love fe one and all inna name of de Father, de Son and de Holy Spirit, amen. De Lord is i light and i salvation, so whom shall i fear? De Lord a de strength of i life, of whom shall i be afraid? These two questions still stand as our hebrew israelite people dem still deh enslaved by de same master, with de same lies and deceit, and de same whip inna dem hand, and how terrible is de sound of that whip, only those who done feel it pon dem back can tell. We was taken away from home, by force, inna shackle and chain, and forced to work fe dem profit, so dem can benefit from our works, we was taken away from our families, so dem can divide and conquer, as dem please, we was beaten and raped fe dem entertainment, and forced to learn their ways by whip and torture and we was stripped of any human rights as dem did a stand up and preach dem lies and deceit about human rights, for we are not even considered human, even though we a de real humans and de real children of Israel, and they are not, and de Holy Scripture done issue a warnin from long time, se beware of de false hebrew israelite dem, beware of those who claim se dem hebrew but dem not, for dem a de devil and de leach and vampire weh a go spawn from hell before JUDGEMENT DAY !

And here we are, face to face with de devil, while de devil still a smile inna we face and a stab we de minute we done turn we back pon dem, we still a work fe dem, and a look up a job within dem wicked system, thinkin that a de right way fe live, accordin fe dem rules and stipulations, thinkin that their law was made accordin to de law of de Allmighty Father, when did de Father ever dictate that any man should a slave fe another man? When did de Father ever dictate that one man deh entitled to rule over de other accordin to de color of their skin or even their nationality? Never, and for as long as we a go keep followin de same principles weh a keep we enslaved and we a go reach out fe help to de same slavemaster weh a keep we inna shackle and chain, we will never free up from captivity, remember de wise words of Carter J. Woodson, "if de negro inna de ghetto must eternally be fed by de hand weh a push him inna de ghetto him will never become strong nuff fe come outta de ghetto" and stop lookin for love from de same people weh responsibile fe your pain and tribulation, great nation of Israel, dont let dem fool we a fe dem fake love and kindness, for dem never know bout no love and kindness, had it been they did, dem would a heal de sick, and shelter de homeless and feed de hunger already by now as dem get nuff money fe done de famine and de poverty around de world ten times over and still be left with a fortune.

De famine and de povery weh dem alone did a bring bout, and nobody else but dem, de famine weh dem done leave behind after dem done rob we blind of everything we had, and now dem want more. Freedom is a must and theres no other way fe de black man, woman and child to achieve that without Repatriation, for de concept of Reparations is bond to remain but a dream, yet to be achieved, without a real time revolution weh allow we fe seize everything back from dem. As dem did a come up with de concept of terrorism fe make up a solid excuse fe dem violent actions we have no other option but to repatriate and make sure that we evacuate each and every one a dem from our holy land, man, woman and pickney dem fe go back to weh dem come from, so that we can start workin pon a reconstruction of our social structure, and our farmin system. Simplicity is what we use fe survive and that alone a de answer fe all questions, one penny from every black man weh rich, and we would a achieve that inna one days time, as we done build de Great Pyramids and de Great Churches Of Lalibela, and de Temple Of Solomon, we can also rebuild our nation. Stand with ini, brother man, as ini a stand fe all of we, and work with ini sistren, as ini a work fe all a we, make a move now and not tomorrow, for there might never be tomorrow if we no go move NOW ! Maximum love and respect, reportin from de battlefield, a humble warrior slave.

SAVE REGGAE MUSIC FROM CAPTIVITY

Blessed love fe one and all, inna name of de Father, de Son and de Holy Spirit, amen. I man done choose this very sensitive topic, over others, because of de cultural importance of music fe our people dem, and when i se our people, i mean de black hebrew israelite dem, de original seed of Judah and de Twelve Tribes Of Israel. Music was, is and will forever be a part of our culture, as it is a natural expression of our roots and culture, therefore it will always stand as de solid cultural foundation of our nation without a doubt, and it was so from ever since de time of King David, and King Solomon dem down to de present times weh we livin. 

Music was de peoples voice over de decades of colonial abuse weh we done pass through durin this so called age of technological evolution of de caucasian dominant race of Europe, music was always there to express our love for one anoter, our pain, our manifest against injustice and our constant need fe a more peaceful enviornment to live in weh we can grow our children and provide dem a proper social and spiritual education, music is sound and as we all know from de Holy Scripture, in de beginnin there was de word, and de word is sound and sound is power, a vibration, de power of creation as we know it, de power that can create or even alter human life, and right now, due to de present situation and de coditions of our times, ini have come to de conclusion that this great power done fall inna de wrong hands, and a very malefic and mischievous entity, de same one in charge of de global economical and financial problem weh we facin nowadays, de same one weh a spawn pure trouble and war wherever it a step foot, is usin this vibration against we, with de sole purpose of destroyin life and reducin de numbers of de worlds population down to their self determined quota as it did a plan from day one. 

We know what is happenin, and why it is happenin, but make we take a closer look at how it is happenin, and what is makin it possible for this entity, this evil freemasonic devil worshipin group of false jews and self claimed hebrew israelite caucasian bankers to take control of our music and culture, as that a de last line of defense weh dem couldnt yet penetrate so far. De answer deh simple, as complicated as it seems, it is yet a simple one, money, money is makin it possible for dem to run de world, to control de people of de world and last but not least, de individual him self, who just cant conceive a livity without money. Before colonialism and before slavery, we never used no money (de definition of money lies within de word bank note, what is a bank note, a worthless piece of paper weh can replace de actual valuble resources weh a make de object of trade), we had one way or another of exchanging our goods and tradin our resources with one another, we had cowries (known as shells otherwise), or just a basic system of tradin one need in exchange fe another, makin life easy fe every party involved inna this, so what de missionaries done bring with dem, aside from a various number of contagious disease, a corrupt, incomplete and wrongly translated version of de Torah, and our Book Of Enoch The Ethiopian, dem also did a bring in money, and through their constant abuse and enslavement of our people over de years, money, as well as european christianity became a part of our lives, when actually these two concepts never had no use whatsoever fe any one of we. These are de main concepts weh dem done use fe keep we captive and fe perpetrate a constant need from our side to connect with dem and trade with dem, as slavery never ended it just done change its method of application and name. Just like a virus weh a infect de human body and a leave a trace behind when it done heal, colonialism done leave a dark shadow behind, and a major part of that shadow is money, weh along with de wrong european doctrine that was implanted within our education and forced down our throat, a make up a powerful weapon of manipulation and mass control. 

A natural question, now that we know about de root of de problem, would a be how can we fix it up and go back to our peaceful divine livity? Again de answer is a simple one, it is up to we and nobody else but we to break de chain and give up their precious money, stop usin it and start tradin as we did before, that way we a go cut de bad weed from de root and allow de good herb to grow. Just like a wise farmer man weh a keep fe him crops clean and free from pest and parasite we fe keep our motherand, our culture and our music free from any kind of caucasian influence, and i mean any kind, be it a mass media, or a promotion, or even a collaboration weh could allow dem access within de premises, must be dismissed at any costs. Music is a mission not a competition and ini strongly believe that a musician can eat more than a decent plate a food from him music if him a go keep it original and livicate it strictly fe him people dem, as Aethiopia (de incient name of Africa accordin to de incient maps and historical records) deh way bigger than Europe and America both, therefore de numbers of our population also exceed their own by far as we a multiply at a higher rate compared to dem, and a fe dem social evidence and records can stand as a biological proof in that sense, do some research and see fe yourself, de evidence deh uncontestable. 

I think that Reggae Music was never made fe no caucasian man, because it was never a part of their history, neither was it a part of their culture, we made de first drums, we made de first riddim, we done create de first music, King David done write de psalms, and no wonder that de actual House Of Rastafari a call de drum, a harp, as it is, and we all know that King David was anythin but caucasian, while for dem it was always a war shout, a violent expression of their prehistoric subhuman neanderthal roots, and theres enough evidence out there in that sense, as much as dem love to lie pon people and deny it, many of dem still deh born with a tail, and de doctor dem affi cut it off at birth, for de origin of de caucasian man can be traced down to de Caucasus Mountain, to de time when Prophet Enoch The Ethiopian, peace be upon him, done talk about a genetical crossbreed between de fallen angel dem and de neanderthal monkey, weh done give birth to this caucasian nation of intelligent monkeys, intelligent but still not human, as most of dem still a bear de blood type RH, a very special type of blood weh can donate to all others but can only receive from their own kind, and this is medical research, a blood type weh can turn blue when oxidised, therefore we have all de european aristocrat families weh a claim that fe dem blood deh blue, and again a type of blood weh all de research available done find as bein of a extraterestrial origin, make a long story short, RH a stand for rhesus monkey with a unknown type of genetical influence. While de rest of de world can trace down their origin to Ethiopia and de first people weh done walk de Earth, medically identified as blood type, A1, A2 and so on, any other but that one. 

So, of course that now a lot of questions will rise from everyone readin this article, how does that influence our lives? Easy, by promotin violence, drug abuse, adultery, and almost any kind of wickedness available through music, through de radio station, through de videos and de TV station, through de newspaper dem, and last but not least through de artiste dem weh a succumb to de conditions of de market forced by their contract and their constant need for money, a very despicable act weh a spawn more violence and chemical drug abuse within de black community makin our people dem fight one another, kill one another all for de benefit of entertainment, whos entertainment may i ask? Ghetto people sure no feel entertained by no gunshot, neither do de gunman dem, neither do de victim dem, not to mention all de innocent collateral victims involved inna this, so who a entertain him self at de sight of this gruesome slaughter and decadence weh music a promote nowadays? Who a de devil and de demon weh a watch this show and a laff? It sure isnt none of we, as we a demand more peace within de community, so it must be de one weh a request it and a condition de artiste promotion with it, who else but de mass media and de whole system around it? And who a run de system? Back to de top, de same caucasian demon weh done invent de money, de same slavemaster, de same roman emperor weh a love to entertain him demonic self at de sight of bloodshed inna de arena, only that now we have become de gladiators and dem done put on a mask weh a make dem look human, remember Robert Nesta Marley message to de world, dont let dem fool you, and wake up, educate yourself black man and educate your black children dem, and educate your black empress dem and stop fightin one another over money and material things, stop bringin more chemical drugs to de community and stop perpetrating hate for one another, as de destruction of de poor is their povery and de destruction of de rich is their vanity, learn how to love one another again, and come outta this demonic system before it is too late.

Inna these times of trouble and tribulation Rastafari a call pon ini nation and a tell dem fe wake up, keep de music original and disconnect it from their mass media, close de door pon dem and never open it again, repatriate back to Aethiopia as none a we were not meant to live inna dem world, accordin to their standards and abidin by their laws, we have our own laws, our own ten commandments, our own standards and doctrine and our Mother is waitin fe we to come back home, honor your mother and your Father, rastaman, and come outta babylon before it collapse because it will soon fall, sooner than we think and our Father no go make no exception when it come to JUDGEMENT. To all de black musician and artiste dem, keep it self sufficient, self aware, self control, at all times, it is a must, depart from de devil and come back to Yahweh Elohim, The Father Of Creation Of All Life And Living Things, as there is no other Greater Than Him. Amen.  

THE CORONATION OF EMPEROR HAILE SELASSIE I AND EMPRESS MENEN

The preparations for the coronation ceremony of Emperor Haile Sellassie I and Empress Menen Asfaw were quite elaborate. According to the National Geographic Magazine of June 1931, several streets in the capital were asphalted for the occasion, electric lights were installed, and eucalyptus fences were constructed to hide round “tukul” huts. Arches were erected along the route that the Emperor and Empress were to take, and flags and bunting were strung up for the celebration.

The police and Imperial Bodyguard were transformed with new khaki uniforms. A triangular coronation monument was erected to commemorate Emperor Haile Sellassie I, whose name translated means Power of the Trinity. The upcoming grand coronation would have provided an opportunity for many relatives of both Menen and Tafari to journey to Addis Ababa. This would have been a busy time for the imminent Empress, as she ensured that her visitors were comfortably accommodated. There were several photographs of the immediate and extended family taken at this time by Armenian court photographers, Haigaz and Tony Boyadjians.

To provide seating for 700 guests, a large auditorium was constructed on the western side of St. George’s Church. Inside, two thrones were placed one third of the way into the hall and some distance apart. His Majesty’s throne was decorated in red and gold, while Her Majesty’s was decorated in blue and gold. For seven days and nights prior to the coronation ceremony, forty-nine bishops and priests in groups of seven chanted the nine Psalms of David at seven stations around St. George‘s Church.

On Tikimt 22, 1923 (November 1, 1930), the day before his coronation, Ras Tafari, in a lengthy speech, paid tribute to the deceased Emperor Menelik II. In the circle in front of St. George’s Church, the visiting Duke of Gloucester of Britain unveiled a gilded statue of Emperor Menelik II riding a horse. On that same day, at midnight, the future Emperor, Empress, family members and nobles attended a church service at St. George‘s for devotional prayer. On the following morning, Tikimt 23, 1923 (November 2, 1930), at 7:00 AM the foreign guests arrived, many accompanied by Ethiopian nobility, and were seated in the church.

Coronation of Emperor Haile Sellassie I

At 7:30 AM on Tikimt 23, 1923 (November 2, 1930), Their Majesties, dressed in white silken communion robes, emerged from the church behind the incense bearers. Once the Emperor was seated on his throne in the temporary auditorium, the silence was broken by His Holiness Abuna Kyrilos, who proclaimed, “Ye princes and ministers, ye nobles and chiefs of the army, ye soldiers and people of Ethiopia, and ye doctors and chiefs of the clergy, ye professors and priests, look ye upon our Emperor Haile Sellassie the First, descended from the dynasty of Menelik the First, who was born of Solomon and of the Queen of Sheba, a dynasty perpetuated without interruption from that time to King Sehale Sellassie and to our times.”

The Emperor then gave his sacred vow to uphold the Orthodox religion, to uphold and administer the laws of the land for the betterment of the Ethiopian people, to maintain the integrity of Ethiopia, and to found schools for developing the spiritual and material welfare of his subjects. In a ceremony lasting five hours, Emperor Haile Sellassie I was covered in gold-embroidered scarlet vestments, and was then presented with a gold sword studded with precious stones and an imperial scepter made of gold and ivory. In addition, a golden globe of the world, a diamond-encrusted ring, and two traditional lances filigreed in gold were bestowed upon His Majesty. With each of these presentations, an anointment of sacred oil was made to the imperial head, brow, and shoulders. The magnificent crown, made of gold and encrusted with diamonds and emeralds, was then placed upon his head and Abuna Kyrilos proclaimed, “That God may make this crown a crown of sanctity and glory. That by the grace and the blessing, which we have given you, may you have an unshaken faith and a pure heart, in order that you may inherit the crown eternal. So be it.”

The new Emperor’s fourteen-year-old son Asfa Wossen then bowed down before his father, pledging his support, as he became the Crown Prince. The Emperor’s second son, six-year-old Prince Mekonnen then paid his respects to his father. The national anthem was played while 101 cannons roared and thousands of loyal subjects surrounding the church cheered in admiration.

Coronation of Empress Menen

After the ceremony for the Emperor, the Empress entered with her attendants to take her throne. Perhaps her attendants were her daughters, seventeen-year-oldTenagne Work and thirteen-year-old Zenebework. The following reading from thePsalms of David (Psalms 45:9-11) was made as a prayer.“Kings’ daughters were among thy honorable women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir. Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; forget also thine own people, and thy father’s house; so shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: for he is thy Lord; and worship thou him.”

The Empress was presented with a ring encrusted with diamonds, and then the red and gold coronation robes were placed upon her. The new Emperor received the Empress’s crown from the Archbishop and spoke the following words about his Empress, “As I, with the will of God, have received this crown from your Holiness, I request the Empress to receive this crown and partake in the honor with me. Therefore, I request your Holiness to put the crown on Empress Menen.”

Abuna Kyrilos took the crown from the Emperor and placed it on the Empress’s head as he made a prayer that the crown be one of knowledge and wisdom, sympathy and goodness. In accordance with this prayer, Empress Menen used her crown to serve the people and to help the poor. After receiving her crown, the Empress went to bow before the Emperor and returned to sit on her throne. Again the anthem was played, the cannons roared and the multitude of women outside the church ululated in appreciation for Empress Menen.

The newly crowned Emperor and Empress then took a grand tour around the inside of St. George’s Church, escorted by bishops and priests, their children, high dignitaries, assistants and others all carrying palm branches and chanting, “Blessed be the King of Israel.” After this, Their Majesties removed their crowns and royal vestments to attend mass inside St. George’s Church in their traditional white silken clothing. Later they donned their regal robes and crowns once more in order to present themselves to the waiting multitude outside before entering a coach drawn by six bay horses, which conveyed them to the Imperial Palace for a state dinner.

On that day, silver medallions bearing the likeness of the new Emperor and Empress were presented to their honorary guests. In attendance were the Duke of Gloucester as envoy of the King of England, the Prince of Udine representing Italy, Marshal Franchet d’Esperey of France, and emissaries from Belgium, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Japan, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, Turkey and the United States. European nobles and ministers present on the occasion expressed their appreciation for the loveliness of Empress Menen. It is interesting to note that the thirty-nine-year-old Empress was more than five months pregnant with her last son when the lengthy coronation events took place.

The Biography Of Empress Menen, The Mother Of The Ethiopian Nation

RASTAFARI PRIORITIES

Iverlastin love for one and all,

Iverlastin wisdom, and motivation,

For what is a warrior without a motivation? A warrior without a cause, a lost warrior, and ini done know that faith can move mountains, nevermind a collective conscience power of creation, and influence upon ini natural environment, from a positive and constructive perspective, of course. Rastafari is a nazarite warrior by definition, as ini know the definition of Rastafari is one and the same with Deuteronomy, Numbers, Chapter 6, Vow Of The Nazarite, for ini done vow to itect Jah commandment and set Jah over man, over mother, over father, over dawta, over son, ini is one, the Imitation Of Christ, inna these times of trouble and tribulation. As the i them can see, the prophetical words of warning of HIM Emperor Haile Selassie I The First have come to pass, as the nations of the world seem blinded by the false concept and doctrine of material power, and a war one another and a shed the blood of the innocent them over territories and political influence. The racist mentality never died, but instead it multiplied and come back inna new shape, that of a New World Order, focused on brain wash education, false information, lies, deceit and manipulation with the sole purpose to achieve one GOAL, that of the aristocrat elites of Europe, to become GODS, to be immortal and to have no other superior, a mission impossible from a Orthodox point of view, but these people don't care about no Orthodox point of view because their DNA is not even human. Yes lion and lioness, a correct information that, them no have no human DNA, and so their purpose could a never be ini itection and development as them no even care bout ini as a species nevermind ini existence self. Rastafari mission is focus on Reparations and Repatriation, two concepts that also include the concept of collective security and self development for ini people them. 

What are these two concepts all about? The answer is simple, we all need to feel safe and we all need to GROW ! There is no exception from the rule, Jah never made no exception, so neither will ini, Jah commandment a state that we should a love our neighbour as we love ourselves, and we can all see that it is not happenin. Why? Because the majority of people still believes in this man made social order, with all of its ups and downs, them still a send the youth them to school inna colonial school, teachin them competition instead of collaboration, hate instead of love, and material love instead of mutual love and respect, thus reversin their natural instincts as they are systematically changing their perspective and priorities. And so the iphone becomes more important than LIFE, making ini mission and priority change as well, from Reparations and Repatriation to Iducation, for Rastafari is a iducative force, a constructive force, the Power Of The Trinity, dedicated for the people them, and knowledge is wisdom and wisdom is true power. Our main purpose must be the embetterment of ini people them, build for them, fix for them, flex with them and teach them for the better and the best as the youth them are the next generation of emperors, warriors, priests, teachers, architects, scientists, doctors and healers, and it is up to them to continue ini mission and fullfill the Prophecy Of Rastafari, one love, one people, one aim, one GOD ! More power to all the warrior them from the battle field, ini reportin from the frontline, our time soon come, sabali ubuntu, power to the people, iverlastin ises unto the Most I Father Of Creation, Yahweh Elohim, King Of Kings And Lord Of Lords, Conquering Lion From The Tribe Of  Judah, Iverlastin, Iverlivin, Iverlovin, Iversure, Emperor Haile Selassie I The First, Jah, Rastafari, Christ In His Kingly Character ! Selah !

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BIO

Ras Dawa, whos real name is David Christian Michael, describes his music as follows, "music is love and love is LIFE". A career started in 1998, as a live act, and later on as a international recording artiste in 2010 when he was recruited by Brown2Music Records, a Jamaican Independent Label where he released his first album, in 2015, entitled I&I&I, a collection of 26 tracks from roots and culture to dub, new roots and dancehall. The spiritual but realistic approach of social matters from the past and present leaves no room for compromise. Turn up Jah Thunder !