History Behind The Rastafarian
Flag
The symbol of the lion is connected to Haile Selassie, an emperor of of Ethiopia which symbolise
who the Rastafarians worship as they leader, Rastafarians believe that Selassie’s heredity can be traced back to the Tribe of Judah, which itself used the lion as a symbol that's why the Rastafari's refer to him as the Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah.
The Lion of Judah was represented on the flag of Ethiopia from 1897 to 1974. Due to its association with Selassie, it continues to be an important symbol alongside members of the Rastafari movement.
The current Rastafarian flag happens to be the old Ethiopian flag, that was used from 1897 to 1974, on which the symbol of the Lion of Judah proudly appears. This version of the Ethiopian flag is red, gold, green, and sometimes black, with the symbol of a crowned lion.
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The red is represented of the blood spilt in the name of freedom throughout Jamaica, particularly of slaves brought over during the overseas period.
Green stands for Jamaica's vegetation, which holds an important place in the practice of the religion. This is especially true of the marijuana plant which rastafarians believe is referred to in the bible as the tree of life. They often smoke marijuana from a pipe during religious ceremonies and always say a prayer before smoking. They believe it gives them wisdom and can bring them closer to Jah (God) through meditation.
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Gold symbolizes the wealth, minerals,as well as hope and faith.
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Black, which is sometimes found on the flag, represents the color of African skin.
