What is Babylon in Jamaica?

Noah Scott | 2018-06-15 07:06:32 | page views:1454
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Oliver Allen

Works at the International Criminal Court, Lives in The Hague, Netherlands.
As an expert in cultural studies, I can provide you with an in-depth understanding of the term "Babylon" within the context of Jamaican culture and the Rastafari movement. The term "Babylon" has a significant symbolic meaning that extends beyond its historical roots and has been deeply ingrained in the Rastafarian belief system.
"Babylon" in Jamaica, particularly within the Rastafarian context, is not a reference to the ancient Mesopotamian city but rather a symbolic term for oppression and the systems of power that are perceived to be unjust. The Rastafari movement, which originated in Jamaica in the 1930s, has a unique interpretation of the term, drawing from both biblical references and historical events.
Rastafarianism is a religious and cultural movement that emerged as a response to the socio-political climate of the time. It is deeply rooted in the African diaspora and seeks to re-establish a connection with African heritage, particularly through the Ethiopian royal lineage, which is venerated in the figure of Haile Selassie I. Rastafarians regard Haile Selassie, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, as a messianic figure and a divine representation of God on Earth.
The term "Babylon" is used within Rastafarianism to represent the oppressive systems that the movement's followers believe they are living under. This includes not only physical oppression but also the suppression of their cultural identity and spiritual beliefs. The concept of Babylon is multifaceted and can be understood in several ways:

1. Oppressive Governments and Powers: In a broader sense, Babylon represents any form of government or authority that Rastafarians perceive as oppressive. This includes colonial powers that historically subjugated the people of Jamaica and the Caribbean.

2. Materialism and Western Society: Babylon is also seen as a symbol of the materialistic and consumer-driven society that Rastafarians reject. They view this society as being in conflict with their values of simplicity, community, and spirituality.

3. Religious Oppression: The term is also used to describe the religious institutions that Rastafarians believe are oppressive, particularly the Roman Catholic Church. This is linked to the historical event of the 1935 invasion of Ethiopia by Italy, which was led by Benito Mussolini. Rastafarians saw this as an act of defiance against their spiritual leader, Haile Selassie I, and by extension, against their faith.

4. Biblical Interpretation: The term "Babylon" is also drawn from the biblical Book of Revelation, where it is used to describe a system of evil and corruption. Rastafarians interpret this biblical Babylon as a metaphor for the modern oppressive systems they face.
The Rastafari movement's defiance of Babylon is a call for the dismantling of these oppressive systems and a return to a more natural and just way of living. This is often expressed through a rejection of conventional societal norms, the adoption of a natural lifestyle, and the promotion of African culture and values.
In conclusion, "Babylon" in Jamaica, within the context of Rastafarianism, is a complex and deeply symbolic term that encapsulates the movement's resistance to perceived injustices and its aspiration for a more equitable and spiritually aligned world. It is a term that has resonated with the Rastafari community and has become a rallying cry for social and spiritual change.

Harper Cole

Studied at the University of Zurich, Lives in Zurich, Switzerland.
Rastafari is defiance of Babylon, sometimes also called Rome -- in part because of the 1935 Italian invasion of Ethiopia, then ruled by Rastafari's 'Living God,' Haile Selassie I, and partly because as the head of the Roman Catholic church (the Pope) is considered an opponent of Selassie I and Rastafari.

Lucas Rodriguez

QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Rastafari is defiance of Babylon, sometimes also called Rome -- in part because of the 1935 Italian invasion of Ethiopia, then ruled by Rastafari's 'Living God,' Haile Selassie I, and partly because as the head of the Roman Catholic church (the Pope) is considered an opponent of Selassie I and Rastafari.
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