Rastafari movement became popular in the 1930’s and was recognized as another religious choice that was different from the traditional Christians religions. The Rastafarians believe in the mysticism of Haile Selassie, the Emperor of Ethiopia. It is this belief that differentiates the Rastafari movement from the other religions such as Islam, Christianity and Judaism as they all allude to the beliefs of Abraham.

The Rastafari movement has the belief that only one God exist and follows the teachings in the new and Old Testament, more predominantly the book of the Revelations. The Rastafarians see His Imperial Majesty (H.I.M) as their human embodiment of God (Jah); he is looked upon as the only true offspring of King Solomon.

The marijuana or ganja is very influential in their customs and is used as medications and as atonement. They emphasized strongly on any topic that they believe in and they thought that each person should nurture their inner spirit. The Rastafari movement is a budding culture and religion and everyone who joins the faith believes in all their preaching’s. This has become so popular that it is even having a widespread effect all over the world.

The Rastafari movement also believed in Marcus Garvey teachings, he was one of the persons that inspired these people. Marcus Garvey is a famous activist who fought for black nationhood, black pride and self reliance. One of the most significant aspects of this movement was how it rose to prominence internationally, by the singer Bob Marley in the 70’s through to the early 80’s. He was recognized as the biggest exponent of the culture through his affiliation with the Rastafari movement and their beliefs. The aspects of the African Jamaican culture were now known internationally through the reggae music.

Although the used of the bible is so predominant in their movement, the bible text does not clearly mention their beliefs, such as Haile Selassie. Most of the information that highlights the Rasta beliefs can be found in their chants, oral testimonies, written materials such as books, magazine or websites and predominantly through songs.

Jamaican culture is strongly reflected through songs and based on the widespread use of the songs the Rastafari culture is highlighted. Also highlighted in their culture is the dreadlocks hairstyle, this is uncombed and uncut hair and is based on the observance of the vows of the Nazarite. Their eating habit is another strong highlight, because they only consume natural foods, popularly referred to as “Ital”. But the food and the hair are not only portrayed by them as many people follow these traditions and are not Rastafarians.

A big controversy between the Rastafarians and the traditions of the Jamaica is there use of their sacred ganja, which they use extensively in their everyday lives. This is viewed on strongly as an illegal substance in Jamaica and the use of it has always caused problems with those who are in authority.

Some of the popular phrases that you hear on the streets of Jamaica derive from the Rastafarians, words such as “Irie” and “Jah”.