Code Of Conduct Rastafari 4f6z39

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE 6- Rastafari Code of Conduct PAGE 9- Acknowledgements PAGE 10-Education. Self Help/Human Diversity PAGE 13- General Code PAGE 15 Future Progress PAGE 16-Commitment to African Upliftment PAGE 17-Responsibility to Global Fellowship and World peace PAGE 18-Educational Responsibility /Health and Dietary Practice PAGE 20-What is Ital PAGE 21-Dispute Resolution PAGE 22– Concerning the Ethiopian Orthodox Church PAGE 24 - Rasta Reggae Musicians PAGE 25– Concerning Rights of age PAGE 26-Sexual Activities PAGE 27-Nyahbinghi Creed PAGE 29 Important dates to

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THE RASTAFARI CODE OF CONDUCT

Greetings and love in the Names of His and Her Imperial Majesties st Emperor Haile Selassie 1 and Empress Menen Asfaw Bredren and Sistren, Rastafari s, Houses and Organizations This code is intended for the Rastafari Nation to be observed as a moral guide to the integrity and steadfastness of the Na-tion. Though many may not consider it to be a part of their daily livity, it is however just a guide The framing of this code was five years in the making, and many things were taken into consideration. The framers have listed and debated the different aspects and opinions of everyone who contributed to its development, whether they were done via e-mail or internet web forums or the telephone and meetings The recommended Rastafari Code of Conduct was first rati-fied in July– August 2008 at the Global Nyah Binghi Consul-tation held at the Nyah Binghi Grounds, Scotts , Claren-don, Jamaica, by the Nyah Binghi Ancient Council and the Nyah Binghi Delegations from across the Caribbean, Africa and the USA. Further collective input was made by the Nyah Binghi National Council UK in 2010. The second revision of the Rastafari Code of Conduct was done by Rastafari Regal Livity (UK) -26th January 2015.

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He who should be a leader must pay the price of self–discipline and moral restraint. This entails the correction and improvement of his personal character, the checking of ions and desires and an exemplary control of one’s bodily needs and desires. Q'damawi Haile Selassie

© Wisemind Publications 2015. Revised 2016 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored without prior permission of the publisher. 7

The following s and Delegates along with of the Rastafari Family approved the Ras Tafari Code of Conduct at the Global nd th Nyah Binghi Consultation July 22 -30 2008 at the Scotts Nyah Binghi Centre, Clarendon Jamaica. Priest George Irons MamaKafe(West Africa) Bongo Ken Sister Lyris Walker (Trinidad) Bongo Roy DawtaInI(Maryland) Sister Eleen(Barbados) Ras Kayode (Barbados) Bongo Tawney Ras Tafari Tzaddi (St Criox) Priest Bongo Shephan Prince Nan Nan (Grenada) Sister Yanzie Ras Raffiki (Barbados) Priest Bongo Zato James Morrell (Barbados) Incient Balewa Ras Caver Ras Iya-V Ras Muggy Roy Mama Fiya Junior Negus Ras Irie Lion Dawta Norma Ras Mabrack Ras Ista J Bongo Wake I Bongo Job Ras Ivi Ras Garth Bongo Joe Bongo Manie Ras Sasse Ras Flako Ras Shaka Bongo Jack (Trinidad) Bongo Italo Tafari (Barbados Sis Irene (Barbados) Ras Bakarai Holder (Barbados) Bongo Grease (Trinidad House) 8

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Special thanks to Q’damawi Haile Selassie and Empress Menen for inspiration, wise mind, knowledge, and over-standing so that InI can magnify Jah works in all the earth with good behaviour, Itegrity, honesty, and love. Extended gratitude to: Ras Ravin-I. Ethiopia-Het-Heru. Binghi Haiasi, Ras Jahaizel, Sister Mary Dread. Ras Cos Tafari. Jah Reveal DeSigns. To The Ancient and istrative Council of the Nyah Binghi along with all participants on the Code of Conduct Message Board. To the NNC (UK) and to all others who have made their valuable contribution –Thank you very much. Ras Flako Tafari

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EDUCATION A strong nation and free nation can only base itself upon education. In order to make life worthwhile it is necessary to acquire other things that can only come about after acquisition of learning. Learning and technical training must be nurtured by faith in God, reverence for the human soul, and respect for the reasoning mind. Q’damawi Haile Selassie. SELF HELP The people themselves must come to realize their own diffi-culties in the development of their community and try to solve them by collective participation following an order of priority and taking their potentiality into Q’damawi Haile Selassie. HUMAN DIVERSITY The very diversity of the world’s people today constitutes one of mankind’s greatest resources; the different philosophies with which nations approach their problems lead inevitably to a vast array of methods and techniques. These variations are necessary, for each people must find solutions which are responsive to its particular needs …each nation must inevita-bly pursue that course best suited to its own unique charac-teristics... We seek Africa’s economic growth and development, the bet-terment of the way of life of Africans and all men . Q'damawi Haile Selassie. 10

The Rastafari Code of Conduct is a general Guideline of ac-ceptable practice, covering a broad spectrum of thought within the movement. As such it outlines the tenets of a unique lifestyle or ‘livity’ which has evolved organically from the teachings and examples of the Elders. This ‘livity’ has been ed on through successive generations of Rasta-fari since the inception of the movement in the 1930s. Today this evolution of practice continues alongside the worldwide spread of the movement. Though the central ten-ets of the movement remain immutable and unchanging, revi-sions and updates are meant to keep ‘livity’ alive and func-tional, rather than dogmatic and doctrinaire. The very spread and maturity of the movement demands a level of documentation that would hitherto have seemed un-necessary – both for adherents of the faith, converts and sympathizers, as well as the growing numbers of students, scholars, academics, religious individuals and groups, and ordinary everyday people who seek to know more about the Rastafari way of life. The Code is the result of widespread consultation with indi-viduals and groups within the movement to arrive at a sum-mary statement on Rastafari morals, values and the overarch-ing principles of a ‘decent way of life’.

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Whereas the people of the Rastafari Nation worldwide: Have affirmed that the Nation of Rastafari is founded on Principles that acknowledge the Divinity of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, Elect of God and Light of this World; Recognize that people remain free only when freedom is founded upon respect for identifiable spiritual and cultural values, faith in fundamental human rights and freedoms, in a world of free people, where the dignity of the human person and the equal and inalienable rights which all of the human family are endowed by their Creator are respected and maintained; Recognize that African liberation must be the primary con-cern of all Rastafari people; Desire that the Rastafari Code of Conduct should enshrine the abovementioned principles for ensuring the protection of InI fundamental practices, lifestyle, and freedoms; InI (We) declare that the following provisions shall outline the Code of Conduct of the Rastafari Nation.

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GENERAL CODE The Rastafari Family and Nation: Accept the Divinity of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I as the cornerstone and foundation of InI faith and being, in Whose Holy Name Ras Tafari InI are called; Defend the sovereign rights of Africans at home and abroad; Abide by the laws and teachings of H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I, the principles and practices of the Elders, InI Pa-triarchs and Matriarchs of Rastafari and the laws of Nature written in the hearts of humankind; Hence InI know and accept that the collective words of Em-peror Haile Selassie are the true and divine foundation of righteous governance. InI uphold the principles of African Unity, Justice, Peace, Love, Truth and Right, along with Freedom, and commit InI - selves whole-heartedly to strive for the cause of African lib-eration, Repatriation and Reparation, and to labour unceas-ingly towards the achievement of these goals. InI also seek world peace and goodwill among all mankind, working always towards equality in world citizenship, and the upholding of the rule of international morality, collective security, and global fraternity. InI celebrate and deem sacred the Birthday of H.I.M. Em-peror Haile rd Selassie I, 23 July 1892, and the Coronation date of both the Emperor nd and Empress on 2 November 1930, these being two major dates in the Rastafari calendar. At all gatherings of spiritual observance and solemn occa-sions, the rules and laws of the host Mansion or House shall apply, and should be observed by all ones in attendance. 13

Whereas certain exemptions shall be made for visitors to any such gathering according to their individual house or man-sion rules, provision should be made to accommodate visi-tors who do not belong to any house or mansion, e.g. dress codes...etc. All are advised that Sacred Herb (I -cense) should be burnt in an incense pot/altar, for the cleansing of the tabernacle and for sanctification of the space. A smoking room should be also available for personal use (knowing that not every one smokes). No drugs are allowed to be imbibed, consumed, or smoked at such events. All attendees should be modestly attired, adhering to the dress code of the particular House or Mansion. Similarly, conduct should be seemly, peaceable, and solemn as befits such occasions. Only Brethren are allowed on harps (drums) at Nyah Binghi ceremonial programmes called ”Ises”, whereas the Sistren are allowed to play shakers and other appropriate hand-held rhythmic instruments. At non ceremonial programmes the Sisters are permitted to play harps in their own groups, eg: The Empress Menen Lib-erators in Jamaica. All are advised and expected to abide by the observances of the officiating priests and elders.

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FUTURE PROGRESS Rastafarians must ‘focus on the commonalities’ as advised by Marcus Garvey and set aside differences to pursue the common goals that affect the collective development. Rastafarians must be productive individually and collectively as selfreliance remains a key pillar of Marcus Garvey teachings. Moral conduct is essential for future progress, collective development and Nation re-building. Rastafarians must remain mindful of the original concept of Righteousness which is based on sound moral conduct and the Laws of MAAT involving balanced reciprocity and diplomacy. Rastafarians must cleave to righteous conduct continually, on a personal level and in interaction with others. Unrighteous interactions are to be avoided. Rastafarians should keep in mind that they are the current vanguards of this ancient indigenous culture and the protectors of all human faith as asserted by the Elder patriarchs and matriarchs. The aged be protected ,the sick nourished, the naked clothed ,the hungry be fed, the infants cared for should not be a idle chant, but one of principle and commitment.

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COMMITMENT TO AFRICAN UPLIFTMENT Domestically, we can build strong and happy and resourceful societies. Internationally, we can force the end of oppression of man by man and nation by nation. We can bring about the security and mutual trust which will open the way to the greater human achievements for which the needs of mankind now cry out. Q'damawi Haile Selassie

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RESPONSIBILITY TO GLOBAL FELLOWSHIP AND WORLD PEACE Let us not bemuse ourselves with the notion that it is any more possible to legislate equality, for these matters concern attitudes and values over which intellect sadly exercises but little control. Let us not recoil in hatred against those who, even while pro-tecting their freedom from bias and prejudice, reveal by their actions that the poison of discrimination has left its lasting effects, and by this reaction reveal that we, no less than they, are prey to unreasoning emotion, that we, no less than they, are susceptible to that virus which is called intolerance. Q'damawi Haile Selassie Peace and love – the original greeting of the Rastafari elders summarizes the fundamental attitude and motivation of the movement. The ethos of harmonious goodwill towards hu-mankind also extends to all living creatures in the universe. The Rastafari Family should at all times seek to maintain the discipline of love for InI fellow men and women, knowing that the healing of Africa is the pathway to global peace and the brotherhood of man. The virtues of tolerance, respect and fraternity should always be hallmarks of InI interaction with each other, with Afri-cans, and with the global community of nations. Rastafari is a nation scattered among nations, and by our orderly conduct and behaviour InI become a light to the entire world.

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We must become something we have never been and for which our education and experience have ill prepared us. We must become bigger than we have ever been: more courageous, greater in spirit, larger in outlook. We must become of a new race, overcoming petty prejudice, owing our ulti-mate allegiance not to nations but to our fellow men within the human community Q’damawi Haile Selassie EDUCATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY Rastafari youths must engage themselves in furthering their Education, also gaining skills by Acquisition and development of various trades and professions from istrative to Technical fields. HEALTH AND DIETARY PRACTICE “There is nothing more precious to man than a sound mind and a sound body, and it is essential that the physical well - being of our people merits as much attention as its spiritual welfare. Good health is not only necessary for the well -being and happiness of man, but is also a fundamental prerequisite for the progress and prosperity of the nation. Just as education insures protection of man’s knowledge in all fields of endeavour, so does proper medical care help in safe-guarding and promoting his physical and mental growth. The preservation of health is a duty. Few seem conscious that there is such a thing as physical morality." 18

Natural and holistic methods of health care are highly recom-mended. However, in instances where the circumstances may be so lifethreatening that surgery may be necessary, it would be advisable to seek conventional medical help. It is recommended that the Rastafari people commit to eating healthy natural foods and follow the holistic principles of living, in keeping with Rastafari traditions and customs. Rastafari who accept a more holistic and nature-oriented lifestyle are the ones living in harmony with the earth. The highest form of dietary practice is the consumption of naturally grown foods. Ital (Livet) diet cleanses and purifies the physical being. It also offers the most life-energizing way of sustaining the physical structure and the inner Irits in their original integrity.

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WHAT IS ITAL ITAL IS FRESH ORGANIC UNPROCESSED FOODS Ones should abstain from: Animal products/by products Processed foods /Genetically Modified foods /Sodium salt The use of salt-free and natural herb seasonings is recom-mended. (In some cultures around the world where seafood is eaten as part of the dietary customs it is a fact that some Rastafari are fishermen and partake of their catch. However, seafood that are scavengers should be avoided. Also to be avoided are: Drunkenness-The use of alcohol beverages (all forms of beer, stouts and wines). The use and sale of Drugs (Iegal or illegal) Drugs- meaning (and including) crack,cocane,barbiturates,pills,pharmaceuticals and any other synthetic commercially produced substances of like nature. Suggested solution: Anyone found to be in violation of the above, i.e. Drunkenness or drug abuse is advised to seek professional counseling and be prepared to stop.

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As we guarantee to each the right to worship as he chooses, so we denounce the policy that set man against man on the issue of religion. Q'damawi Haile Selassie DISPUTE RESOLUTION This is as it should be, for when brothers or sisters quarrel, as it happens from time to time, they come together and dis-cuss the issues concerned in a very open manner and at-tempt to arrive at a mutually agreed solution. It is natural for forty-one nations to have different problems. It is our duty to trash out our differences, and to reach a solution that will command our united stand. We should be aware, more than before, not to allow discord amongst us. We must close ranks and discharge our obligations in harmony and unity of vision and purpose.(Important Utterance of Q'damawi Haile Selassie) In the event of disputes, the parties involved should be taken before a Grievance Committee of the organization, or mansion that they belong to. Evidence that is collected, should then determine the resolu-tion and/or disciplinary action by the Grievance Committee. Failing resolution from the Grievance Committee, the evi-dence collected on the matter should be turned over to the executive istration of said organization or mansion

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CONCERNING THE ETHIOPIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH Rastafarians should not be discouraged to be a member of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, it is an ancient Ethiopian order and His Imperial Majesty is the 'Defender of the Faith' NON-MANSION Rastafari (ones) who do not belong to any organization or mansion are advised to take their disputes to any of the ex-isting mansions or organizations of their choosing. UNRESOLVED DISPUTES In an instance where there is no resolution by the Grievance Committee, the following is recommended: Suspension for a minimum of 3 months, after which the case will be reviewed. After the review a final decision will be taken by the Griev-ance Committee or istration of said mansion or organization. Rastafari (ones) who do not belong to any mansion or organi-zation, should abide by the final decision of the mansion or organization that they have chosen to air their grievance. In case of disputes of a violent nature, the matter should be referred to the appropriate local authorities for a resolution.

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Note: One should abstain from Using the methods of justice of the external system, except in extreme situations where the social law is appropriate to dictate the outcome of the situation Using methods of vigilante justice or any action that would endanger or threaten the security of he Rastafari family. There should be no partiality in dispute resolution .The law of the society should be obeyed, unless it conflicts directly with InI fundamental beliefs . One should not: Abuse, slander, carry tales, hearsay, or disgrace any Rastafari brethren, sistren, house, mansion, organization, or others, in public places, through Printed Press, Radio, Television, Internet, or any other communication media. Ones should: Always respect the decision of the Council of Elders, Incient Guardians of the Faith, or the Wisemind of Elders in the community. Acknowledge the contributions of the Patriarchs, Matriarchs, and Founding Fathers of the Faith. Never use the ancients to obtain money for personal benefits. Always acknowledge the contribution of African Leaders, African Liberators and Freedom Fighters, noting important dates and events in the African Calendar. 23

RASTAFARI REGGAE MUSICIANS, SINGERS, PROMOTERS, MCs & DJs SHOULD ALWAYS: Maintain the roots and cultural lyrics of the music and the standard set by the pioneers who use the music to educate and uplift. Conduct themselves with integrity while on stage and off, which includes activities while on local or foreign tours. Consider making financial contribution to the social and eco-nomic development of the Rastafari N ation. ONES SHOULD REFRAIN FROM: Using Q'damawi Haile Selassie and Empress Menen casually or in vain while on or off stage Creating music and dance that trivializes a woman’s sexual-ity or tramples on her I-tegrity and self-worth, or influence ones to consider or commit acts of violence against her. Creating music and lyrics that influence anyone to commit crimes against another. Promoting music videos with lewd, sexually explicit or im-moral behaviour.

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CONCERNING RIGHTS OF AGE: BIRTH (SANTIFICATION OF NEWBORNS) ING AND INTERMENT. Birth Within some Houses (e.g. Nyah Binghi) a ceremony has been ritualized to welcome and sanctify newborns in the commu-nity. This ceremony is conducted by an authorized Priest at a gathering, where the infant is welcomed with special prayers, and is celebrated as a new member of the community with joyful chants and jubilation. If the family of the new born is not a member of a house or mansion and request such sanctification, the individual must learn and accept the fundamental teachings of Rastafari liv-ity If you are a member of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church the relevant procedures should be followed Marriage A marriage ceremony is also in the process of being estab-lished, with the intent that it may be recognized as socially and legally binding within the community as well as the State. Interment A ceremonial order should be in place for the individual to be laid to rest, and for their earthly contribution to the Rastafari Nation to be ed and celebrated Cremation is now being considered as an acceptable final rite 25

All ceremonies should be performed by certified Rastafari Priest or Chaplain. It is unwise for the nonbeliever in Rastafari to conduct the Rights of age, as the customary procurers of the faith could be violated. SEXUAL ACTIVITIES The following practices are forbidden by Rastafari codes of Immoral behaviour: Homosexuality Sodomy Sex with children or animals Rape Oral Sex Prostitution Whoredom Incest ONES SHOULD AVOID Entering into a relationship knowingly aware that a person is already in an intimate situation with another Entering into a sexual or intimate relationship that may cause disharmony, grief or strife Entering into a sexual or intimate relationship involving multiple partners Displaying any activity in the public that depicts sexual intent

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THE NYAH BINGHI CREED Princes and Princesses must trod out of Egypt Ithiopians now stretch forth her hands to Jah O' Jah of I'thiopia, InI Ivine Majesty Thy Irits trod unto I to dwell in the path of righteousness. Lead InI Help InI to forgive, that I must be forgiven Teach InI love and loyalty on earth as it is in Zion Endow InI with wise mind, knowledge and over standing to do thy will Thy blessings O' Jah Let the hungry be fed, the naked clothed, the sick nourished, the aged protected and the infants cared for Deliver InI from the hands of our enemies that InI must prove fruitful in these perilous days When our enemies are ed and decayed in the depths of the sea, in the depths of the earth, in the belly of the beast

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O' give InI a place in thy Iver living Kingman Through the powers of the King of Kings Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah Ilect of Himself and light of the world InI Ivine Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I Jah Rastafari

First Incient King of Iration and for Iver Jah art the Alpha and Omega The beginning without end, the First and Forever The Protectorate of all human faith and ruler of the Iniverse Thou art the High Priest of the Order of Melchisedek Who Liveth and Reigneth for Iver So InI hail our Jah and King Emperor Haile Selassie Jah Rastafari!! Almighty I Jah Rastafari! Great and Thunderable I JahRastafari!!

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IMPORTANT DATES TO th

7 January - Ethiopian Feast of the Nativity of Christ Ist March –Battle of Adowa th 3 April (25 Megabit) - Empress Menen Earth Day The April 1963 Coral Gardens Atrocity Anniversary Commemoration Good Friday better know as “BAD FRI-DAY” th

18 April 1966 - H.I.M Visit to Trinidad and Tobago st

21 April 1966 - H.I.M Visit to Jamaica th

25 May - All African Liberation Day th 16 June - The First Patriarch Leonard Howell Earth Day rd

23 July - H.I.M Emperor Haile Selassie I Earth Day th

17 August - Marcus Garvey Earth Day th 11 Sept - Ethiopian New year nd 2 Nov - H.I.M &Empress Menen Coronation UTTERANCES The tolerance of dissent and criticism within a Government proceeds from a single essential premise: that the Govern-ment exists to serve the people generally. Government ser-vants, whether designated as representatives or not, have a trust to work for the general welfare” Q’damawi Haile Selassie. Domestically, we can build strong and happy and resourceful societies. Internationally, we can force the end of oppression of man by man and nation by nation. We can bring about the security and mutual trust which will open the way to the greater human achievements for which the needs of mankind now cry out.” Q’damawi Haile Selassie. 29

Liberate the minds of men and ultimately you will liberate the bodies of men Hon Marcus Garvey. There is no force like success, and that is why the individual makes all effort to surround himself throughout life with the evidence of it; as of the individual, so should it be of the nation Hon Marcus Garvey. A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots Hon Marcus Garvey.

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