Rastafari Dictionary & Glossary
This glossary documents the language, philosophy, and cultural expressions of Rastafari. Many terms originate in Jamaican speech, Biblical language, Amharic, and African traditions.
Language and Linguistics in Rastafari
Rastafari speech reshapes English to remove colonial meanings and affirm divine identity.
- Oppressor → Downpressor
- Understand → Overstand
- Dedicate → Livicate
- Creation → I-creation
The pronoun "I" reflects the divine presence of Jah within humanity, expressed in the phrase "I and I."
A
Abyssinia: Historic name for Ethiopia revered in Rastafari spirituality.
Afrika: The ancestral continent and spiritual homeland of African people.
Alkebulan: Ancient name for Africa meaning "Mother of Mankind."
B
Babylon: Oppressive political and economic systems rooted in colonial domination.
Baldhead: Person outside Rastafari livity.
Binghi / Nyabinghi: Sacred Rastafari drumming and spiritual gatherings.
C
Chalice: Sacred pipe used to smoke ganja during reasoning.
Chant Down Babylon: Spiritual resistance through speech, prayer, and music.
D
Dread: Rastafari practitioner devoted to the faith.
Downpressor: Oppressor who suppresses people through power.
I
I and I: Expression of unity between humanity and Jah.
Irie: A peaceful and positive state of being.
Ises: Praise or exaltation directed toward Jah.
Iwah: Harmony, balance, and divine alignment.
Ital: Natural, pure diet emphasizing plant-based foods.
J
Jah: God in Rastafari belief.
Jah Man: Righteous Rastafari man devoted to Jah.
K
Kemet: Ancient Egyptian name meaning "The Black Land."
S
Satta Massagana: Amharic phrase meaning "Give thanks to God."
Selah: Pause and reflect.
T
Tinaskelin: Greeting meaning peace and blessings.
Z
Zion: Africa as the spiritual homeland and place of liberation.
Why Rastafari Language Matters
Rastafari speech is both linguistic innovation and cultural resistance. By reshaping language, Rastafari restores African identity, spirituality, and dignity.
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