5 Influences Towards the Rastafari Faith

Towards all the corners of the earth the faith of “Rastafari” has had a positive impact upon the people. Many are aware of “Rastafari” through Reggae music, namely through  Bob Marley. “Rastafari” which is not a religion, nor writs nor rites, but a through function of the heart.

Many persons of the “Rastafari” faith has made some tremendous influence, not only to the faith but also upon the world. Whether it be by music or just liberation speeches by various representatives.

“Rastafari” has made known the importance of unity, education and justice and equality to name a few. Throughout the world people have looked to “Rastas” as the nation who will liberate the people from “Babylon“.

“Rastafari’s” concern about black consciousness, with rediscovering the identity, and repatriation to Africa. Has led many to look towards “Rastafari”.

Influences on Rastafari Faith

So because of the positive impact of “Rastafari”. We will take a look at 5 influences.

1. Leonard P. Howell – And the first influence we’ll write about is Leonard Howell. As commonly known, Leonard Howell was the “first Rastaman”. Therefore, we’ll discuss him first. So, in 1933 Howell began the preaching of “Haile Selassie I” as the returned “Messaiah”. Although targeted and imprisoned. The movements of “Rastafari” grew. Local rulers viewed Howell as a threat. Due to anti-colonial message in the “Rastafari” faith, the “Rastafari” community grew because of the positive black racial identity. Especially in a time when racism and slavery still existed. In addition please check the link:

   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leonard_Howell

2. Bob Marley – King of Reggae. One of the reggae pioneers and a “disciple” of “Rastafari”. Bob Marley’s music, filled with a lot of spiritual essence. Bob’s music career started in 1963. Along with Peter Tosh and Bunny Wailer, Bob was part of the group called “The Wailers”. Bob marley spoke  extensively about “HIM Haile Selassie I” and about the “Bible“. Liberating the black people as well as the rest of the world through his music. Bob was very ardent toward “Rastafari”.and proponent towards “Rastafari”. Bob spoke highly of “Christ” in his Kingly Character. Who stands to liberate all his children, the children of Israel. In addition please check the link:

   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQFIU6nQJoo

3. Marcus Garvey – Although Garvey wasn’t of the “Rastafari” faith. His messages and principles did align with those in the faith. Garvey, considered a prophet, and rightly so. He prophesied saying, “Look to Africa, when a black king shall be crowned for the day of deliverance is near!”. Prophesying, the crowning of “Rastafari” as King of Kings.  Garvey known more as a a Jamaican political activist, publisher, philosopher, journalist, entrepreneur, and orator. He was the founder and first President-General of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League.

4. Vernon Carrington – Founded the Twelve Tribes of Israel branch of the Rastafari movement in 1968. More formerly known as “Prophet Gad” or “Gadman”. Famous for spreading the message “Read your Bible a chapter a day. From Genesis 1 to Revelation 22. “Search the scriptures; For in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me”(St. John 5  v 39). Although “Gadman” Preached about “Yahashua Hamashiach” being the saviour. He taught that the bloodline of David, namely HIM Haile Selassie I/Rastafari was the “Holy Spirit” proclaimed by “Yahashua”. Revealed in the book of John chapter 14. In addition please check the link:

   https://soundcloud.com/royal-rootz-entertainment-1/irie-fm-interview-with-dr-vernon-carrington-the-prophet-gad-of-the-12-tribes-of-israel

5. Peter Tosh – Another musician to advocate about “Rastafari” was Peter Tosh. Known for being outspoken with the authorities to stand up for truths and rights.  Peter Tosh love for the “Bible” and “Rastafari” led him to be baptized by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.  Although his work advocated freedom and the struggle against injustice. He emphasized the link between his music and being a revolutionary by playing a guitar the shape of an M-16.In addition please check the link:

   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXwOjSVoU3s