Rastafarian Beliefs on Drug and Alcohol Rehab

As with members of any faith, sometimes Rastafarians suffer from drug and alcohol addiction. Luckily, there are drug and alcohol rehab options available to Rastafarians, as well as many treatment centers which provide first-class care to Rastas.

As Rastas believe in natural healing, some could gravitate toward homeopathic practices for treatment. Homeopathic treatment allegedly harness the healing powers of certain herbs and flowers as ingredients in teas, aromatherapy, or capsules. Such remedies supposedly treat ailments like migraines, depression, anxiety, the flu, other emotional trauma, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, and nausea.

Additionally, some of these treatments, such as CBD for example, could be used in the place of Marijuana to combat anxiety or muscle pain if someone decides to lessen Marijuana use. Additionally, if a Rasta opts for treatment, they can find homeopathic treatments like meditation, yoga and cognitive behavioral therapy beneficial. Fortunately, such methods are more common in inpatient rehab facilities for drug and alcohol abuse.

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Rastafarian Facts

Rastafarian, also called Ras Tafari, is an Abrahamic religion originating in Jamaica in the 1930s. The term Ras Tafari comes from an Ethiopian prince later named Haile Selassie becoming Emperor of Ethiopia in 1930. Haile Selassie is a central figure of the Rastafari faith is revered as divine. The belief is that he was God sent to deliver Black people from slavery. He is considered as the living god, prophesied by Marcus Garvey before Selassie become king. Upon a visit to Jamaica, after the country lacked rain and desperately needed it, Selassie’s visit caused it to rain.

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Rastafarian Beliefs

Rastafarian embodies elements of Christianity, mysticism, and pan-Africanism political awareness as themes. Popularity associated with reggae mega star Bob Marley, the faith is fairly popular in Jamaican sub-cultures and globally recognized. Currently, there are a million follows of this faith. Rastas are known for having lengthy dread locks that are kept clean. This stems from the biblical belief that men or women should not cut their hair. It is a symbol of strength, hence Rastafarians’ lengthy locks. A peaceful religion, there are strict patriarchal beliefs and unique practices that set the religion apart from others.

Rastas call God “Jah” (or I-and-I) stemming from Jehovah, and Rastas believe that God is omnipotent—God is everywhere and in all people. Additionally, Rastas are generally nonviolent people who revere nature and health as strong elements of their belief system. Members of this faith eat food they consider I-tal (vital minus the v) which represents a natural diet free of chemicals, additives, and meat. Some Rastafarians are vegetarian or vegan. The religion is symbolized by a lion of Judah with a crown, and a flag with green, gold, and red colors. The colors reflect herbs, blood, royalty, and African racial identity.

Marijuana Use In The Rastafarian Religion

Prayer and meditation are a central element of this religion, and Marijuana is viewed as a tool to help aid in spirituality. As a result, there is a Marijuana use permitted in Ras Tafari circles. The belief is that Marijuana relaxes the mind and body, aiding in a higher quality itiation (meditation experience). Ganja, Sanskrit in origin, was first brought to Jamaican by Indian indentured servants, later becoming associated with Jamaica and Rastas. The herb was illegal, but notable Rastas like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh encouraged its legal status.

Despite this, Marijuana is smoked to help produce “calming visions” and relaxation. Another element of Marijuana smoking in the Rasta faith is to promote a sense of community. Rastas partake in a ceremony where they smoke Ganja out of a chalice and “pass the incense up to God” along with chanting, drumming, and prayer.

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Finding Rehab Options

Treatment facilities can help those battling problematic substance use disorders, including Marijuana dependence or a combination of Marijuana with alcohol. Facilities can help those struggling with chemical use disorders by including holistic and faith-based treatments. Additionally, 12-Step groups can offer the spiritual connection needed for a holistic approach to healing and a community-based focus. Contact a treatment provider today to talk about your rehab options.

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Krystina Murray

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  • Krystina Murray has received a B.A. in English at Georgia State University, has over 5 years of professional writing and editing experience, and over 15 years of overall writing experience. She enjoys traveling, fitness, crafting, and spreading awareness of addiction recovery to help people transform their lives.

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Reviewed by Certified Addiction Professional:

Theresa Parisi

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  • Theresa Parisi is a Certified Addiction Professional (CAP), Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager (CBHCM), and International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC) with over 12 years of experience in the addiction treatment field.

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