Rastafari Hair and Braids

Living close to nature:

Rastafarians believe in living closer to nature, evident through their diet and lifestyle choices. They refrain from eating animals that have already died.

Symbolic dreadlocks:

Rastafarians wear dreadlocks to represent the Lion of Judah, a title held by Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. The dreadlocks signify the powerful and gentle nature of the lion. Rastafarians also view the lion as a reminder not to provoke animals that may strike back in self-defense.

Benefits of braids:

Braids are an excellent solution for tangled hair and can boost self-confidence. However, tight braids can cause tension and hair loss. To prevent this, applying a hair mask before washing and using a wide-tooth comb for detangling is recommended. A mixture of water and conditioner can also aid in the detangling process.

Caring for braids:

To maintain healthy braids, it is advised to wash them every two to three weeks to prevent buildup and matting. Antiseptic oils like tea tree or peppermint can soothe the scalp, and a fine-tooth comb, such as a rat tail comb, can be used to remove dandruff and flakes. hair oils like coconut, olive, and fenugreek help soften and detangle the braids.

Confidence boost with dreadlocks:

Wearing dreadlocks to symbolize their faith and connection with God, Rastafarians exude confidence and boldness. This can be especially beneficial during challenging situations like facing false imprisonment.

Rastafari beliefs and practices:

The Rastafari Movement combines aspects of Protestant Christianity, spiritualism, and pan-African political consciousness. Smoking ganja (marijuana) is a part of spiritual revelation among Rastafarians, along with using natural products and consuming a vegetarian diet.

The symbolism behind dreadlocks:

Rastafarians consider themselves descendants of King Solomon and Queen Sheba, with Emperor Haile Selassie seen as their reincarnation of Jesus Christ, known as the Lion of Judah. Dreadlocks play a significant role in Rastafari culture and Jamaican society.

Dreadlocks as a form of identity and resistance:

Dreadlocks have historically symbolized power, strength, and African heritage. They counteract European standards of beauty and challenge racial stereotypes. Rastafarians have faced persecution and forced hair trimming as a means of oppression.

Attention-grabbing symbolism:

Dreadlocks, being a symbol of Rastafari culture and religion, draw attention. They represent spiritual enlightenment and rejection of Western beauty ideals. “Dread talk” is a distinct language used among Rastafarians to identify themselves.

Misconceptions and stereotypes:

Some associate Rastafarians with violence and hatred towards women due to a misinterpretation of the biblical story of Samson. Rastafarians, however, refrain from cutting their hair based on the Nazarite vow, and this practice should not be equated with violence or misogyny.