African Unity

Africa. When I bring up the name of the mother of all continents with students in my classroom, or in conversations with average everyday people, I can already predict the type of commentary I’ll receive: “poor people, war, primitive, disease, wild animals”, and so forth. Even if we dismiss the attitudes spawned out of bigotry or ignorance held by the international community (which we cannot), at the very least the perception of Africa is a pessimistic one. Why does it appear to so many people as if no good can ever come out of Africa? Why does it seem like the media only reports on the failure and depravity of African nations? How can the richest and most ancient continent on Earth have the poorest people? As a Rastaman and a teacher, I do my best to address the negative attitudes about Africa. Yes, the continent still suffers very much, but now more than ever in modern times there are some wonderful things to say about Mama Africa as she moves toward a renaissance. We celebrate African Liberation Day, or Africa Day, as the beginning of a new independent Africa and the harbinger of good things that are yet to come.

On this day, May 25th, 1963, the charter for the Organization of African Unity (OAU) was signed by 32 independent African nations, just a few short years after they gained independence from their colonial European powers. Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia presided over the formation of the OAU (now the African Union) along with other revolutionary African leaders like Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana with the goal of urging the African nations to unite on common ground. While some leaders were in favor of more gradual efforts to unify, others like Nkrumah who held socialist and Pan-Africanist ideas, looked to create a strong federation, a United States of Africa. This was a manifestation of the dreams held by the Pan-African Congress first organized by W.E.B. Du Bois, and the efforts of so many other freedom-fighters from Africa and the African Diaspora in the Caribbean and America seeking to eradicate colonialism. The OAU was the foundation for African solidarity, for having a collective voice, for building a real economic and political future, to defend human rights and raise the living standards of Africans at home and abroad. However, political self-determination came with many challenges for the newly independent nations and for those nations still to be liberated. Remember, Britain did not decolonize Zimbabwe until 1980, and an apartheid government existed in South Africa until 1994.

For centuries, Africa, with all of its wealth and its once proud trade empires of ancient and medieval times, had been exploited of its natural and human resources, damaged and segmented by the slave trade and colonialism brought by both the Arab and European world. After so many years of darkness, a swift strengthening and healing could not be possible for these vulnerable nations. Borders were drawn across the African continent, leaving nations with diverse ethnic groups, cultures, and religions that became the catalysts for conflict and control. During the Cold War the United States and USSR competed for influence in independent Africa, seeking resources and strategic locations. Since independence, political turmoil has resulted in frequent military coups, and true democracy is frequently stifled by one-party systems and eventually dictatorships. Natural resources have been exploited by either imperialist economies or warlords seeking regional control. Furthermore, foreign assistance largely ceased along with the Cold War and many African nations were left in debt to the IMF and the World Bank, beholden to foreign governments and businesses, the people of these countries have suffered through poverty and the other problems that spawn from it. 

In the midst of all the chaos and crisis, some heroes of the African independence movement were ousted from power by rivals or became despotic rulers. Kwame Nkrumah, the father of my wife’s native country Ghana, the leader who proclaimed “self-government now”, was one of those. When he became the first president of Ghana, some of his political tactics were considered to be authoritarian, and in efforts to modernize the country, the nation fell into debt which eventually led to him being overthrown (some say with the help of the CIA). Now decades later, many Ghanaians regard Nkrumah as a hero who tried to build up the nation and who promoted the liberation and unification of the whole African continent. Jomo Kenyatta of Kenya was another founding African statesman and the first president of his country who had also been criticized during his reign and yet has been regarded as a hero. Along with Kwame Nkrumah, Kenyatta was one of the first African leaders to get involved and collaborate with W.E.B. DuBois and the Pan-Africanist Congress. Before Kenya’s independence he was imprisoned by the British for allegedly aiding the Mau Mau rebellion. He was also the inspiration of reggae’s Burning Spear. Finally, there is the father of African unity, H.I.M. Haile Selassie I who was overthrown by the Communist Derg leader Mengistu Haile Mariam after famine caused distress amongst the people. Yet, Emperor Selassie I had modernized Ethiopia, promoted education, made the ancient monarchy a constitutional one, and helped lay the foundation for the OAU (and now the African Union), in his own capital of Addis Ababa. Critics who claimed that H.I.M. was an autocrat used fraudulent reasons to take power. Derg supporters and foreign journalists like Ryszard Kapuściński (who was a Communist and sympathetic to Mariam) spread and wrote deceitful things about Haile Selassie I and ignored the arrests and executions of university students, intellectuals and politicians and the forceful exile of the royal family by the military coup. Why can’t the world honor these men and their achievements without discrediting them?

I do not advocate totalitarianism, corruption, or the violation of human rights... but let’s be honest. Many of the same things that African leaders, past and present, have been blamed for are things that go unnoticed or whitewashed in the politics of the Western world.  Particularly in regard to Emperor Haile Selassie I, Kwame Nkrumah, and Jomo Kenyatta, where no violence or terrible infringements of human rights have ever been honestly attributed to them. These great men were liberators and sought the unification of the entire African continent and to say that their leadership needs to be measured against the example of American or Western democracy is unsuited and unfair especially when examples of good governance were absent even during colonial rule (besides Ethiopia). There are many perspectives and authors to history. Some of these views are right and some are wrong... and more often than not, there is a blending of both. Ultimately the Truth does reveal itself, and I believe it will favor those who fought for the rights and dignity of the oppressed by any means necessary. Of course there have been dictators in the truest sense of the word like Mobutu Sese Seko, Idi Amin, Charles Taylor, and others who have used torture, murder, war, and political manipulation to keep power. Fortunately, over the years the citizens of many of these African countries have forced dictatorships to hold elections and transition to some form of democracy. 

Over the past few months the news stories coming out of Africa have been bleak, as usual... and underreported, as usual. The military Islamist organization called Boko Haram is still terrorizing Nigeria with violence, ethnic attacks and a coup d’état took place in Mali, battles in the new country of South Sudan, political commotion in Senegal, and continued problems in the Congo and Somalia. Oh, and of course you had the flash-in-the-pan that was “Kony 2012”, a YouTube popularity contest to find Uganda warlord, Joseph Kony, whom people have known about for over 20 years. In fact there are existing documentaries about Kony and the LRA that are at least 10 years old now. What have been the real actual fruits of this campaign besides a few sensationalized news stories aired for a couple of weeks in April? Not to take anything away from the terrible amounts of suffering that people endure in these war-torn and unstable areas, but this is the image of Africa that we are left with: a helpless, despaired, “dark continent”... unable to rise on its own without the help of some well-intended Western college students, missionaries, and celebrities. It perpetuates the notion that Africa is unable to help itself and become great again. However, on the flip-side is plenty of evidence that Africa is on the rise.

There are many hopeful signs that point to a good future for Africa. Africa is in the midst of a population explosion, middle classes are emerging, business entrepreneurship is evolving, urbanization is spreading, and economies are growing with the help of new foreign investment, particularly from China. There is more freedom from Western influences and more competition in the African economies, which means that foreign interests have to play by African rules. With such changes, livelihoods are changing for the better as well. Many young, globally connected, and increasingly more educated Africans are demanding political changes, better healthcare, functional governments, free elections, and are realizing the necessity for being the creators of their own destinies. Africa is slowly and steadily on the rise. The flaws and failures will eventually even out after many years of growing pains. For all of the negative incidents shown in the news, not enough of the African success stories are highlighted for others to see, like the economic gains of today’s Ghana and Mozambique. It is important to look at these many factors when examining Africa. To do so is not ignoring the problems that currently exist, but rather being optimistic of the things that are sure to come. 

Look to Mama Africa with optimism and hope, just like the Pan-Africanist leaders, Selassie, Nkrumah, and Kenyatta. Like DuBois, George Padmore and Dudley Thompson from America and the Caribbean. No matter who you are or where you come from, Africa is the birthplace of humanity and the foundation of our global future. The whole world is Africa. So, let us hail up Africa, like Marcus Garvey once wrote:

Hail! United States of Africa-free!

Hail! Motherland most bright, divinely fair!

State in perfect sisterhood united,

Born of truth; mighty thou shalt ever be.

- “Hail, United States of Africa” by Marcus Garvey

Happy African Liberation Day; Africa Unite, 

JAHsh

Kwame Nkrumah & H.I.M. Haile Selassie I

The Elect Of JAH

Today is Election Day in the United States. This year, it happens to fall on Coronation Day, marking the 80th Anniversary of the crowning of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I. The occasion offers an interesting contrast to behold. On one end, you have the game of politics. Although the idea and practice of democracy is something that the United States upholds, promotes, and has shared with the world, it is an imperfect system and has lost much of its splendor especially during the past decades. Dirty campaigning, unfulfilled promises, the shameless spending of millions of dollars, and the partisan political rhetoric have all contributed to the tainted image of American government and free elections. Even President Barack Obama, who was swept into office on a tide of hope, is not without criticism from some of his original followers, whether it is warranted or not. Ultimately the political system seems to consume all good intentions. On the other end, you have the coronation of a king from an ancient lineage, a theocratic monarchy inherited from King David and his son King Solomon. According to Scripture, this monarchy was established by the Most High Himself. However, the lineage of kings has not been a perfect one either. In fact, one only needs to read the accounts of David and Solomon in the Bible and Kebra Nagast to see contradictions between their conduct and their role as anointed kings of Israel, the nation of JAH’s chosen people. Yet, an everlasting covenant was given to David, an eternal promise to his seed that they would be the Kings of Israel and the custodians of God’s Throne as long as there is a sun and moon in the sky (Psalms 89). This is what is called the Davidic Covenant: that promise that the seed of David would endure through every generation, and that the sovereign tribe of Israel would be Judah. H.I.M. Haile Selassie I was crowned on this day 80 years ago as the 225th royal descendant in the line of Solomon. So today, these lines converge to a point where the democratic system of government, originated in ancient Athens, adopted and improved throughout time up to the present United States is juxtaposed with the crowning of King Selassie of the Ethiopian Royal Family, the Davidic monarchy of the Tribe of Judah. We have the meeting of the elect of the people versus the Elect of JAH. As for me... I choose the Elect of JAH.

I make a bold statement here, but it is a statement of Faith. Some may ask me why in this day and age would I support and follow a monarchy that claims to be the rightful rulers of Earth. After all, many kingdoms throughout history have done the same, like Britain and France, holding to the concept of divine right. However, the Ethiopian Royal Family is the only set of people on Earth capable of tracing their lineage to Solomon and David. Others have tried to make that connection, especially after adopting Judeo-Christendom. Yet, the ancient tradition and record that Ethiopia and the text of the Kebra Nagast speaks of manifests this Truth. Even so, some may then ask why the Solomonic lineage of Ethiopian kings should be significant even if it is true. However, if it was not important, then why in the Bible did the gospels of Matthew and Luke go through the lineage and genealogy of Jesus Christ up until David just to prove that Yeshua (Jesus) was of King David’s seed? If this lineage indicated that part of the Scriptures were fulfilled in the birth, death and resurrection of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach, the “Son of David”, then this lineage is also important to continue through Solomon, his son Menelik I or Bayna-Lehkem (by Makeda, the Queen of Sheba) up to Haile Selassie I and even to his grandson, H.I.H. Zere Yacob, because of the Davidic Covenant which did not end after Christ’s coming... since its promise was eternal. In a mystical and spiritual sense, Jesus Christ was king on David’s throne, but not physically, not until “he whose right it is” or “Shiloh”, or in other words the Second-Advent of Christ shall receive the throne after the kingdom governed by one of David’s seed is no more. Even traditional Christians uphold this belief that Jesus Christ will return and sit on Israel’s throne in the judgment. So if the descendants of David are still present in the Royal Family of Ethiopia, and the sun still shines and the moon still glows, and Iyesus Kristos has not yet come again in His Second Advent to judge the wickedness and evil of this world in the Armageddon, then that means the Davidic Covenant still exists... and King Selassie I’s coronation represented the modern continuation of that promise and the foreshadowing of Christ’s return through the works and divinity of His Majesty. I also believe that Selassie I was not just another Davidic/Solominic king, but also truly fulfilled his role as Israel’s King and manifested the Spirit of Christ. H.I.M.’s kingship was the restoration of light and overstanding from the House of David, he was the Elect of JAH to represent Him to all of humanity and he loosed the Seven Seals.

Just yesterday I wrote a reasoning on Dr. Vernon Carrington, the Prophet Gad, who’s Earthstrong comes the day right before Coronation Day. Brother Gad’s testimony is symbolic in a similar way to how Marcus Garvey’s prophetic declaration of an African sovereign before Selassie I’s coronation had called ones to Rastafari. Gadman had aligned Rastafari doctrine with his Orthodox teachings supported by the Scriptures and with what H.I.M. Haile Selassie Himself declared. Rather than one of the traditional Rastafarian beliefs that His Majesty was the Second-Advent of Christ, Bro. Gad said that Selassie I was “the same Spirit but different flesh” and mentioned that King Selassie was the “man of the hour” in this time. He shared insight into the importance of the Davidic Throne, which many Rastas at the time did not fully overstand, and most Christians neglected. Gadman even made many of his teachings public during a radio interview in which he distinguished between Haile Selassie I and Jesus Christ. The Prophet Gad was a vital component to the Rastafari philosophy, especially after H.I.M. was withdrawn from us in his physical manifestation. In overstanding the fullness of Selassie I, one can realize that the Solominic Dynasty continues and with it the hope of restoration of the Ethiopian Monarchy and JAH Kingdom on Earth. Leaders within the Twelve Tribes of Israel such as Karl Phillpotts Naphtali have continued to carry on the Orthodox teachings, especially that of the Davidic Covenant. Selassie was the 225th descendant of Solomon, but it continues... Amha Selassie, the 226th, Zere Yacob... 227th... until Shiloh come, Rastafari can’t done.

Ultimately human government will fail, because we as humans fail. Just look at all the dirty corrupt politicians looking for a vote to get into office. Even many of the kings of Israel and Judah after the death of Solomon and the division of his kingdom practiced idolatry and did not serve JAH faithfully, particularly those that were not of the Ethiopian line of Menelik I. It goes to show that mankind may fail, but JAH will never fail, and neither will His plan. He will always fulfill His promise, and that was seen in the divine Messianic Personage of His Imperial Majesty when he was crowned as the Elect of JAH in Addis Ababa, November 2, 1930. So, on this Election Day I give thanks for the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Elect of God, Defender of the Faith, and Light of the World... Emperor Haile Selassie I! I vote for Earth’s Rightful Ruler! JAH lives through the personality of His Imperial Majesty and the descendants of the Ethiopian Royal Family. The Lion of the Tribe of Judah hath prevailed.

“I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David, my servant: Thy seed will I establish forever, and build my throne to all generations. Selah” – Psalms 89: 3-4

“The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gather of the people be” – Genesis 49: 10

Long Live the King of Kings!,
JAHsh

Enlargeth Gad

Greetings in the Most Precious & Divine Name of our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ who has in this day revealed Himself to us in the Wonderful Personality of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I.

Greetings through the Orthodox Faith, not a faith of writs or rites, vows, nor laws, but an inward function of the heart, acquired through a Mystical Incorporation, or Unity in One, in plain words to be Born Again.

Greetings through the Twelve Tribes of Israel, which was once lost and scattered abroad, but has now been founded on the island of Jamaica since 1968 by Our Beloved Prophet, Brother Gad, and now functioning internationally!

Greetings also in the Ethiopian Royal House of David now being represented by Our Beloved Crown Prince Zere Yacob Asfa Wossen Haile Selassie I. We pray for the Restoration of the Monarchy! Selassie I!

The words above are the official greetings of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, the Rastafari mansion, or organization, which was founded by Dr. Vernon Carrington Gad, known by his followers as Gadman or Prophet Gad. Today, November 1st , is the Earthstrong of the beloved Gadman. Although he no longer trods the earth in flesh, his works and teachings will endure.

In Rastafari, there is a central unifying concept which mostly revolves around Emperor Haile Selassie I, Marcus Garvey and the idea of African liberation, but the interpretation of these personalities and other tenants within the movement vary from Rasta to Rasta, especially those within one of the major mansions. For instance, the Bobo Shanti Rastas praise Edward Emmanuel along with Haile Selassie I and Marcus Garvey as part of their trinity. Nyahbinghi Rastas may hold one of the bongo elders or ones like Leonard Howell as the next central figure. However, I as a Twelve Tribes Rastafarian see Gadman as the next most influential person in Rastafari.

A reasoning about Prophet Gad has been a long time coming. Although I never actually got the opportunity to meet the man, he has had one of the greatest spiritual influences on me. I came to know of Gad soon after a shift in my life, when soul-searching, prayer, and the love and care of bredrens and sistrens brought me to a new overstanding. By the age of 22, I was seriously starting my trod as a Rastafari. My approach to Rastafari has partly to do with the reason why I crossed paths with the Twelve Tribes of Israel. I was raised as a practicing Catholic, had a good education, and for the most part used my intelligence. I had a keen spiritual sense and strong faith, but also a logical and scholarly way of thinking. That same sense allowed me to closely study the history of Africa, of Ethiopia, and the Bible. As I started my trod, many things in Rastafari harmonized with me, but some did not. Certain things I could not sight because of what I knew historically and biblically, and because of my own identity and ethnicity. Perhaps I was approaching certain Rastafari reasonings from a different angle, perhaps I was not accepting it esoterically or allegorically (I did eventually expand past my “comfort” zones). Either way, I was seeking to continue my trod, but find ones who I could identify with and grow with as I went on my journey. My close bredren spoke of the Twelve Tribes, I heard of the Twelve Tribes in the reggae music I listened to, I came across reasonings in books and online. The spirit of Truth and of acceptance vibed with me and more and more I sought out to find out about this Twelve Tribes of Israel organization within the Rastafari movement. I began to follow many of Gad’s teachings but I soon wanted to formally be a part of it. Eventually I got a telephone number for the closest headquarters... I called, explained I wanted to visit and who I was, and I was warmly encouraged to come. By the time I was 23, I had officially become a member of TTOI, and perhaps worried my family that I was joining an obscure cult, but I eventually had time to explain all of that too, and Dr. Vernon Carrington’s teachings helped. I suppose I stepped right in his footpath.

Vernon Carrington had been a member of the Ethiopian World Federation in Jamaica, when he had a revelation and began to closely read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. He started to identify with one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel spoken about in the Old Testament, the Tribe of Gad. Eventually he saw it as his duty to reunite Israel which was scattered throughout the world and his message brought him many followers in Trench Town, Kingston. He told others to read the Bible cover to cover, just like he did, and seek answers for themselves. Gadman brought something unique to the Rastafari movement in the late 1960’s. Something that earned him the criticism of many others within the Rasta community. His teachings were quite unorthodox compared to the traditional Nyahbinghi roots anchored in the philosophies of the “Holy Piby” and Leonard Howell’s “The Promise Key”. Many Rastas knew and followed Scripture, but mostly Genesis, Revelation and the Psalms. Because the Bible was seen as the tool of the oppressors, much of it was forsaken. Yet Bro. Gad said it was all important to read the entire Bible because the message within remained true.

Gadman began to fill in a gap that had grown between Rastafari and Christianity, and in actuality also the very words and identity of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I. He encouraged literacy and education, having followers read the Bible a chapter a day along with the speeches of Haile Selassie I and Marcus Garvey. He also asked followers to get a Metaphysical Bible Dictionary and to read the daily newspaper. Many Rastas did not (and still do not) read the utterances of Selassie or Garvey for themselves. Many were not literate in the Bible outside of certain passages. Things are mostly communicated orally and musically in Rastafari, but Gad was saying for people to check things for themselves and seek Truth by using their own intelligence and not the words of others... even those of himself. So with a firm foundation of to build on, Prophet Gad continued to reveal more teachings. Brother Gad taught that by reading the entire Bible, one would find the relevance of both the Old and New Testaments and recognize that Jesus Christ was the savior, and also that the Spirit of Christ could be found in the personality of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I. One would be able to overstand this concept through the eternal promises to David, the Davidic Covenant which so many Christians neglect to this day. He taught that anyone could identify with the Twelve Tribes of Israel according to their month of birth. Each tribe represented a part of the body of Christ and had its own faculties and tendencies along with their own designated color.

If being saved by Jesus Christ’s name was not enough of a shock to the Rasta community, the revelations would continue to cause a disturbance. He said “whosever will may come”, and rather than deal with race, he spoke of humanity as the decedents of Noah’s three sons: Ham, Shem and Japheth. Therefore all were welcome and all were bredren, there was no racial discrimination. Gad reminded Rastafari people that women stood next to man as equals and were represented in the organization. Although there was a lot of talk about Mama Africa and Queen Omega, women had a history of being considered, or at least treated, as second-class in the traditional patriarchy of Rastafari. In Twelve Tribes, women had important roles and positions. Gad taught that faith was not of writs or rites, and therefore there was no doctrine of race, sex, food, hair, smoking or holidays... rather ones were saved by grace and adherence to certain practices was optional. Gad encouraged ones to act as princes and princess and to carry themselves as royalty. He taught that marriage was good and important for raising families, and that proper burials were not a problem because man was flesh. These are things that some traditional Rastas have avoided. Gad taught ones to spread the message of unity through music and TTOI began to host stage shows and dances, and record reggae artists. In fact some of the biggest reggae superstars were Twelve Tribes members: Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, Freddie McGregor, Judy Mowatt, Sister Carol, Junior Byles, Brigadier Jerry, Israel Vibration, Denroy Morgan and Morgan Heritage... and many others. The message still continues in the words of other artists, for instance Luciano and Messenjah Selah, who as far as I know may not officially be Twelve Tribes members but adhere to many of the concepts.

Prophet Gad stressed the importance of organization. He began formal membership, had a system of succession, and centralized headquarters in Jamaica and then wherever the mansion was established. Dr. Vernon Carrington’s message spread internationally to twenty houses in eighteen countries all over the world: Jamaica, Ethiopia, Ghana, Grenada, Australia, New Zealand, England (Manchester & London), Barbados, Sweden, Suriname, Cayman, USA (New York & California), St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago, Canada, Kenya, Germany and Guyana. Members would have one voice with uniform greetings and banners (red, gold and green hats). Gadman also spoke of being diplomatic and cooperate with authority (within reason of course). Headquarters display the flags of Ethiopia and the local country, a photo of the local head of state is within the HQ (in America that included Bush). The concept is in line with the Bible in accordance to the words of Yeshua (Jesus) who said to give unto Caesar what is Caesar’s. Therefore Twelve Tribes in non-political and peaceful and does not set out to stirrup conflict.

Brother Gad stressed the importance of repatriation back to Ethiopia. While this is a central tenant of Rastafari, Gad and the Twelve Tribes fulfilled this by sending members to live in Shashamane Land and recommended that all of the different mansions and individuals with Rastafari join together there under the Jamaican Rastafarian Development Community. Finally, Gadman showed ones that Selassie’s divinity and anointment are significant because he has prepared David’s throne for Christ’s coming, and called us to rally around Jehovah Throne. He taught ones to recognize that H.I.M. Haile Selassie I designated his son and grandson, Zere Yacob, to succeed the throne and that the Davidic/Solomonic Monarchy of Ethiopia continues beyond Selassie I until Shiloh, the return of Christ comes, because Israel shall never be short of a king or a prophet. The Twelve Tribes has organized benefits for the exiled family where they have attended. So Gadman has united the Twelve Tribes of Israel with the King, both physically and metaphysically.

All of these visions and teachings of Dr. Vernon Carrington, The Prophet Gad, helped bring Rastafari beliefs in order with what is revealed in the Bible and what has been spoken by H.I.M. Haile Selassie I, as well as Marcus Garvey. All of Gadman’s teachings have Biblical compliments... the holy foundation that even His Majesty claimed to glorify and said that all “all the ancient Scriptures were written for Our instruction...”. Gad’s teachings have received criticism and ridicule from other Rastas not willing to accept such things as the fullness of the Bible, or the idea of being saved by grace through Christ, or the inclusion of different nationalities in the unification of Israel. Some have even ridiculed members for being more educated and economically stable, which seems more like resentment. Nevertheless, how can Rastafari people argue with His Majesty? Ultimately Gad’s works reveal the reason why H.I.M. Haile Selassie I is the King of Kings. Twelve Tribes eventually became the largest and most organized of all the Rastafari mansions. The people influenced by Gadman’s revelations are twice as much, even if they don’t realize they are receiving lessons through some of the songs of Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, or Morgan Heritage.

I give thanks to Bro. Gad for what he has shown JAH people. I remember following his advice and when I started reading the Bible a chapter a day even before I joined Twelve Tribes. It took me three and a half years and I gained so much wisdom and knowledge. Although I haven’t read it through again consecutively, I keep the Bible handy at all times. In addition I read the Kebra Nagast and other books taken out of the Bible, like the Book of Enoch. I continued to read the Utterances of His Majesty and the Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey. The greatest thing was that I was not commanded to do a thing, or forced to believe anything. I was only encouraged by Brother Gad and the executive body at TTOI HQ in NY to read the Bible a chapter a day to find the truth for myself. This is the same way Gadman taught his followers, and the same way they are still taught... to cross the bridges in our gaps of understanding and come closer to JAH and the teachings of His Majesty while operating with love and unity. While I am a Twelve Tribes of Israel member, I have also sighted up things outside of the main tenants of the organization... as I am sometimes carried along by the natural mystic of Rastafari, and the Nyahbinghi teachings that go beyond Scripture. However, thanks to Bro. Gad, I always have the firm foundation of Orthodox Faith to stand on, and ultimately the Truth reveals itself in JAH Word.

Our beloved Prophet Gad passed on in 2005. I remember calling the Twelve Tribes HQ in NY to double check if the news was true. I attended a memorial for him at NYC and was wishing I could have gone to Kingston for the gathering of Israel at his funeral. Years later I did reach, and I met Sister Vie (Sister Dinah), Gadman’s wife. It was an honor to meet her and shake her hand at the Twelve Tribes organ in Kingston. I could only express how thankful I was for Bro. Gad’s teachings and how they changed my life and overstanding of my faith. He stopped his breath to save the people... surely there was a prophet amongst us. So, Israel continues to enlargeth Gad!

"And of Gad he said, Blessed be he that enlargeth Gad: he dwelleth as a lion, and teareth the arm with the crown of the head." - Deuteronomy 33:20

Long Live The Prophet Gad! Read your Bible a Chapter a Day!

Are You Picking Up?,
JAHsh
Joshua Curzan Simeon

Marcus, Mark Us

Marcus, Mark Us

He was born in the beautiful hills of St. Anne's Bay, JA
Until he made his way to Harlem, where he founded the UNIA
Everywhere he traveled, he saw his people were on the bottom
Shut out of opportunities, sharecropping sugar and cotton
He said that before black people could make any real gains
They first had to break loose from all of their colonial chains
The blood stains endorsed by a white Geezus and preacherman
The same system that stole human cargo from the Motherland
So Marcus said to now see God through their unique vision
With a new understanding to reclaim the word Christian

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
Teach the youths what the colors mean
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because the whole world must see
There's no peace until Afrikan Unity

Marcus said look to the East for the crowning of a new king
It was Negus Nagast, H.I.M. Selassie and the Empress Menen
For years he told of the many things left out of his-story
Like Afrikan science and art taught at Timbuktu's university
Black dignity, it was the concept erased by the slave trade
Replaced by Eurocentric eccentrics and their own masquerade
Marcus would not behave, he gave the people the eyes to see
That for hundreds of years they were denied the opportunity
He said education was the equation to end black frustration
So he said rise up, take an occupation and build up a nation

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
So we can live the Afrikan dream
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because the whole world must see
Your words have revealed prophecy

Marcus said the words, One God! One Aim! One Destiny!
A call for all Afrikans to know about their true identity
He said to leave behind Babylon and the westernized mind
Promoting repatriation, he then began the Black Star Line
He said to be self-reliant, and to do things for yourself
To take care of your family, community, and your health
Establish some type of business and accumulate some wealth
Organize and centralize, have racial pride, move and achieve
Fight until the tides of ignorance and doubt begin to recede
Have leaders of your own, because the rest are contemptuous
Marcus said that the Negro is sleeping on his own intelligence

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
Teach the youths what the colors mean
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because all of the world must see
There's no peace until Afrikan Unity

He inspired the freedom fighters, and he led the Garveyites
Among them the first Rastas who fought for truth and rights
He led them in his uniform, gold epaulettes and plumed hat
Like a field marshal taking on Mystery Babylon in full combat
He strived to build up Jamaica and the Afrikans in the West
Then take them back to Afrika where they could live the best
His opinions and philosophy reveal humanity could not be free
Unless we see that we're all children of Mama Afrika originally
So we must follow Mister Garvey and accomplish what we will
For the whole world is Afrika, and we are a Mighty Race still

Oh Marcus, mark us
With the black, red, gold and green
So we can live the Afrikan dream
Mister Garvey, mark us
Because the whole world must see
Your words have revealed prophecy

JMC
8/17/10
(c) 2010

August 17th is the Earthstrong (Birthday) of the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a national hero of Jamaica, and prophet in the Rastafari movement. He truly was the black redeemer whose mission it was to uplift Africans at home and abroad. Everyone should know Marcus, no matter your origin or complexion because the direction he gave to the African people is ultimately the same direction all of humanity must move in. One God! One Aim! One Destiny! ...Hail Up Marcus!

Stranger To The Familiar

There have been stories for thousands of years of the archetypal stranger. Imagine a traveler from a distant land somehow finding his way to a place where he is an obvious outsider. He appears to be quite different from those amongst him and unaccustomed to the ways of the people he encounters. As he tries to learn and understand, he may become frustrated because it all seems so different from what he knows. After being in this foreign land for enough time, a few things may happen. He may assimilate after having mastered the new culture and choose to become a part of it. He may live uncomfortably on the fringe of that society, involved in it for the sake of his livelihood, but still considered the stranger. Finally, he may decide to return to his homeland after finding that he cannot compromise his ways in order to fit in.

Sometimes I feel like this proverbial stranger, but the strange thing is, I feel like it within my very own society. Actually it is harder now to define this society, since most of what we now see is not just on a national scale, but on a global scale... pushed by economics and commercialism. I may even dare to say that the world is becoming Americanized, or at least Westernized. With these changes the modern world appears to become more and more alien each day. We have become so self-absorbed with the artificial things of our own creation. We thrive on materialism. We have freedoms like never before and yet seldom are these freedoms tempered by any idea of morality or in the very least, character.

I saw a commercial not too long ago that actually advertised an internet network for infidelity. At first I thought it was a joke, because it was presented as a cartoon, but then I looked up the ambiguous website name online and it was indeed a service that was specifically designed to set up affairs for people in relationships. Needless to say, I was shocked. But then again, why should I be shocked at all? Our society has promoted this type of behavior for years in movies, music, magazines, and other forms of pop culture. We have exposed ourselves to these things, and to our youth, and eventually we have made these behaviors and lifestyles quite normal for us. In spite of this radical change, we still scoff at traditions and practices from ancient times, whether cultural or faith based. We parody what others hold as sacred.

I find it strange that some people would find my own trod of Rastafari bizarre and ridiculous, or for that matter, my very belief in God Himself, and yet they readily accept things which may have once been considered social and cultural taboos such as imprisonment, drunkenness, sexual orientation, obscenities, promiscuity, sexual practices, abortion, body alterations, atheism, etc. Now, it is not my position to judge what is right or wrong, nor will I express my opinions on the aforementioned… but why should my personal belief and ways of life seem so peculiar to members of this society that have accepted things far beyond that in terms of behavior and perhaps negative social impact? It makes no sense.

I believe it has a lot to do with the vanity of humankind. We have bartered in our beliefs in order to achieve our own advantages and comforts in life. Principal no longer plays an import role in our behaviors and instead we are ruled by our own illusions of high-mindedness. Our ideas of liberty and the pursuit of happiness have gone far beyond the idea of living naturally free and doing what we feel necessary to live a peaceful and humble life to our own liking. What really is behind all this? What shapes our identities and causes us to decide to turn the tables on what is considered normal and strange in this modern time? If it is self-destructive, if it is vain, if it is selfish, if it is wicked, hypocritical, and unjust… then that is what in Rastafari we call the concept of Babylon.

H.I.M. Haile Selassie I once said, “unless we find the requisite courage and fixity of purpose to rise above our petty selves; we shall be broken on the wheel of our own invention, slaves of our own despotism.” The system of Babylon is one created by mankind, fashioned by those who strive to get ahead at the expense of others, created out of the lowest of desires, slowly ebbing away at our integrity, our character, and our dignity until we accept the lies, the immorality, the foolishness, and treat it as the most normal thing in the world. It is mental slavery. It is a slavery that affects everyone, no matter their race, color or creed. Sometimes it is very subtle, and sometimes it is very obvious. Even things that are not intrinsically immoral in themselves are eating away at us, like indifference and ignorance. Yet the only way to navigate out of the confusion is to be aware that Babylon does indeed exist and is having an impact on our world.

I wish to escape from Babylon, because I am a stranger here... it is not where I belong. I would rather roam through forested hills, drink from flowing streams of water, and eat freshly picked fruit from the trees. I would rather hear the birds and the creatures and get lost in Creation. I would rather sit amongst the elders and learn from them. I would rather be amongst people who love and respect one another, who praise the Most High, who look after the youths and guide them in ways that are beneficial to themselves and to the greater society. It all may seem utopian and absurd, but this is the lifestyle that allowed for people to live and progress for thousands of years. It was the way we grew up, it was the steady balance to those civilizations consumed by greed and warfare. This desire to go back to a place such as this, namely Africa, is called repatriation in Rastafari. Men like the great Marcus Garvey (who we honor tomorrow on his birthday) told his followers in the African Diaspora to return to the Motherland and escape from this Babylon society that allowed racism, segregation, and injustice and to collect together as a nation that would be able to stand against oppression and regain Africa’s glory. Some things have changed for the better, Garvey would be surprised, but other things remain the same and more dangerously some things are now merely cloaked in deception. Babylon is alive and well, poisoning every nation’s well with that deception.

Africa itself is in trouble, plagued by problems from its colonial past and by warmongers vying for power. Yet where there is hope, there is life. There are still areas of Africa where people live naturally and peacefully, even as there are other parts of the world where this happens too. Movements such as Rastafari have even made in impact in the belly of the beast, like Europe for instance, where many people are changing their attitudes on life. However, in Rastafari we also believe in repatriating mentally and spiritually if not physically. The elders believed very much that physical repatriation would free them from the problems, but in this global Babylonian society we now must consider a Zion State of Mind… becoming a stranger to the familiar and breaking down Babylon’s walls. Good will always prevail, and we can start by changing our attitudes and by freeing up our communities today.

Repatriation Is A Must!,
JAHsh

Kingly Character: A Narrative

Imagine a world on the very edge of crisis. The radios and newspapers are full of rumors of war and in just a mere matter of years these rumors will manifest on a scale unseen before. In Germany and Italy, fascism begins to spill out from obscure corners, bleeding radicalized thoughts that start to captivate entire nations of people, while in turn attempting to annihilate others. In Soviet Russia, harsh state policies and suppression have many living in fear of Stalin's power. In Asia, unbridled imperialism is on the rise and nations will be falling into chaos. The United States is in the throes of an economic failure and the effects of the Great Depression are becoming a harsh reality. Finally, the colonial powers of Europe still have their talons sunk into Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean with no end in sight. Some months ago, Mohandas Gandhi lead the non-violent Satyagraha movement of the Purna Swaraj in the Salt March in India, inspiring Indians to resist the British Empire... but since then violent clashes and massacres have made the headlines. This was the climate of 1930, a time of upheaval and a year of uncertainty.

During this same time, on November 2, 1930, a man of small stature known as Ras Tafari Makonnen is proclaimed Emperor of Ethiopia. He is given the name Haile Selassie I, "Might of the Trinity", and the titles "King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, and Elect of God". Later on, Selassie I will also take the title “Defender of the Faith” for his devotion to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Christianity in general. He now sits on the ancient throne of Ethiopia, a country seemingly forgotten by time, yet at the very root of human history. His coronation makes him the 225th Emperor of Ethiopia, a lineage claiming descent from King Solomon of ancient Israel. More than just a legend, the Ethiopian people had upheld the tradition of ancient Hebraic religious practices for thousands of years as well as a claim to possess the Ark of the Covenant. When Christianity arrived in Ethiopia, it was an ancient brand, untouched by the politicization of the faith by the Roman Empire. Finally, Ethiopia remained the only African country to resist European colonization (besides Liberia), having defeated the Italian invaders in the Battle of Adwa in 1896. This is the legacy that His Imperial Majesty now inherits. All eyes seem to gaze on Haile Selassie I, especially the envious eyes of Mussolini, who in a few years will seek a twisted form of revenge against Ethiopia for the Italian defeat at Adwa.

Now imagine living in Jamaica during the year 1930, a small island nation under the rule of the British Empire. Three years ago an outspoken activist, Marcus Garvey, had told those who would listen to look to Africa for the crowning of a black king. He has been encouraging Jamaicans and other people of the African Diaspora to unite and join together, to resist white colonial powers, and repatriate back to Africa to live in their ancestral homeland and fight against outside aggressors. His message of black pride has been popular with the struggling class, eking out a living from days spent on sugarcane plantations in rural communities. Stories and photos have circulated before on Ras Tafari Makonnen, the visits he made to various countries, the power and dignity he seemed to possess… something that seemed so far out of reach for the common man, a black man in the western hemisphere. Growing up in church, you’ve long heard stories from preachers and ministers about the Promised Land, Israel captivated by the Babylonians, the wise King Solomon, the Ark of the Covenant, and of the Book of Revelations. Sometimes the trials of your life and your loved ones seem to echo the accounts written in the Bible. Suddenly in a November news article, you read of Ras Tafari on his Coronation Day… a black king of this mystical nation, Ethiopia, crowned emperor! You see photos of him and his queen in their robes, surrounded by all nations of people. You find out that Emperor Haile Selassie I is given the very same titles, “King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of Judah…” revealed in the Scriptures, names that follow the coming of Jesus Christ. This is prophecy revealed! Soon, preachers like Leonard Howell and Joseph Hibbert help bring about the Rastafari movement… though a movement, some would say, established since Creation.

Forward on to now. Rastafari has grown since that day in November of 1930, His Imperial Majesty’s Coronation. It has become worldwide. However, first we must look to H.I.M. Haile Selassie I himself, because the story did not end with H.I.M. being crowned emperor of an ancient monarchy, even though that is all it took for him to earn the adoration and reverence of millions. His story is that of a wise and benevolent leader, for whom there has been no comparison in terms of importance and accomplishment. He fought against the evil forces of Italian fascism and imperialism, and still offered forgiveness for his transgressors. He stood with defiance before the League of Nations and later boldly addressed the United Nations. His leadership brought light to the African continent, for so long perceived and dismissed as the “Dark Continent”. He helped establish the Organization of African Unity. He addressed human rights without regard to color or creed, at home and abroad. He shared his rule with his people, giving the Ethiopians their first constitution and handing down liberties unknown before in his nation. He helped build schools and hospitals in an effort to modernize his country while keeping its traditional integrity. He met with leaders of nations from all over the world, and visited their countries. Although a devout Ethiopian Orthodox Christian he had an ecumenical outlook and met with various other church leaders even building relations with the Vatican and with other religious faiths such as Islam. He visited Jamaica and Trinidad and met with Rastafari elders there, as well as political leaders to discuss the well-being of his admirers and followers in the West. He also gave a portion of land called Shashamane in Ethiopia as a show of support to those Rastafari people and those of the African Diaspora who wished to repatriate back to Africa. While all of these are significant achievements, they only skim the surface because there so many more things to mention on His Majesty. However it shows that H.I.M. Haile Selassie I was not a mere symbol or relic of some biblical dynasty… he is the Comforter in this time!

Rastafari is a worldwide phenomenon now, with all kinds of people from all parts of the earth, but some forget about why I&I chant “Rastafari”. It is because of His Majesty! As made known, the Emperor speaks for himself. His wisdom equaled that of his ancestor, Solomon. He showed what it meant to be a follower of Iyesus Kristos (Jesus Christ), revealed Christ in His Kingly Character, and showed a way of peace to the people of the world. His utterances and his actions will outlast and endure throughout the ages. He came to power during a time of war and calamity and guarded over JAH people, his nation and those of others, like a shepherd guards his flock. He encouraged people to have a spiritual outlook, to love JAH, and take care of one another. He encouraged progressive behaviors. Surely JAH Spirit dwelled within H.I.M., the Holy Spirit of the Comforter. Rastas declare to the nations that Haile Selassie I is the foundation in this time… all Rastafari venerate and follow Selassie I. Not all within the movement may agree on how to uphold H.I.M., but it is love and respect that reign over the different points of view because nobody can deny Selassie I and his example. So, I hail H.I.M. up as an ambassador to the King of Kings! Give thanks for the crowning of Haile Selassie I!

Hail The Comforter,
JAHsh

The Eve of Hope

78 years ago today, Ras Tafari Makonnen was crowned Emperor Haile Selassie I alongside his wife Empress Menen in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Ever since that time "King Alpha" and "Queen Omega" have been righteous examples for humanity, inspiring the Rastafari movement and all of the great freedom fighters, singers, musicians, and humble servants of the Most High that have united underneath the red, gold and green banner during the last century.

I can only imagine the enthusiasm felt by the Garveyites and the first Rastas like Leonard Howell during the time of Selassie's coronation in 1930. Marcus Garvey's prophecy that said to look toward Africa for a black king came to fruition. Finally Africans at home and abroad had a king of their own that they could acknowledge. Yet this joy wasn't exclusive to Africans alone, people and leaders from nations all around the world knew that this was no ordinary secular king who was crowned (they only had to read the Scriptures and ancient tomes of history). There is no doubt that the life, wisdom and teachings of His Imperial Majesty have continued to inspire generation after generation of people from all colors and creeds, regardless of how they sight up his character.

Now, I don't intend to compare Barack Obama to the personality of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I, but I can't help but feel an excitement in this time and recognize this same feeling of excitement in millions of others who share it with me. This "Eve of Hope" as I call it must be something like that moment 78 years ago. However, this time we have the power to elect our leader, we have the opportunity to make a right and proper choice.

I am not one to invest myself in what I&I call "politricks" and I have no faith in politricksters. However, something truly seems different about Barack Obama. It is not because of his racial background and the significance behind that, those are not the measurements of a good leader… it is because for the first time, this man, a regular man with a true, fair, and accessible vision is offering something new to the American people and ultimately to people from all around the world as well. From the very first time I heard Mr. Obama speak, I was moved in such a deep way that I knew this man was an exceptional person and that he could be the answer to America's problems. His intelligence, integrity and determination are a breath of fresh air in the stale room of politics. Obama's leadership and philosophy is what this country needs and I believe in the change that he offers.

It is hard to believe that in only two days from now, we will elect a new president of the United States. I am confident that Americans will make the right choice and I am confident that things in America will begin to change for the better once Barack Obama and his wife Michelle occupy the White House. There are so many naysayers and hatemongers spreading propaganda in order to try and stop this from happening, but the voice of the people is the voice of JAH. Opposition is nothing new, Mussolini had his eyes on Ethiopia even as His Majesty was crowned, and every good and decent leader throughout history has had to fight against evil. But the age of fear is over and hope is on the horizon ready to chase the wicked back into darkness. It is amazing to see the possibility of a black president only a few decades after the Civil Rights Movement and less than 150 years after slavery in America was abolished. It goes to show that good will always prevail and that for the most part Americans are progressive and altruistic people. Imagine now having a leader who can foster those same ideals and restore America's reputation as a beacon of freedom and equality to the world.

Haile Selassie I's titles were King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Elect of God and Defender of the Faith. I hope that on Tuesday night we can dub Mr. Barack Obama as President of the United States, Leader of the Free World, the Elect of the American People, and Defender of the American Dream. Perhaps King Selassie's Coronation on a Sunday, November 2, 1930 is a sign of the future and a benediction for Obama on this Sunday today, November 2, 2008.

Vote on Election Day, Nov. 4th!... JAH Rastafari!

JAHsh

Hold Them, Marcus

A few days ago some celebrated the birthday of Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a central figure in Rastafari ideology, a Jamaican national hero, a pioneer and spokesperson for Black pride and Black identity. As a high school history teacher I have had opportunities to ask students if they knew who Marcus Garvey was, all kinds of students, some from Jamaica even. From what I've experienced, I've found that very few know about Garvey, and even those who do, know little about his impact. I imagine that this is both bitter and sweet. Bitter in the sense that "no one remembers old Marcus Garvey" as Burning Spear once sang. Sweet in the sense that maybe we have reached a point where the African Diaspora is not in as crucial a state of affairs and thus has allowed many black people to live comfortably in the West. Needless to say, it is my belief that Marcus should always be remembered and I take a quote from the man himself, "a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots." Still, as another reggae song goes, "dem never love poor Marcus!"

Marcus Garvey was a man in a different period of time, he personally experienced and struggled against racial hatred and prejudice along with other Africans in the West, and any shadow of Civil Rights was still decades away into the future. It was a time when black people were still being lynched on trees in the American South. Yet, Marcus Garvey stood firm against all this injustice and made no reservations on his mission to liberate the minds, bodies and souls of the African Diaspora. Garvey strongly advocated education, empowerment, racial pride and racial unity. He restored the dignity of black people and called for them to be self-sufficient and take leadership roles in their communities. He inspired Africans at home and abroad with his gift for expression, passionately proclaiming words that still resonate today such as, "Up, up, you mighty race! You can accomplish what you will." He urged black people to see God through "black spectacles" to know that they were beautifully and wonderfully made in God's own image, giving them a spiritual sense of equality and godliness long withheld from them by white people. He founded the UNIA with a constitution clearly declaring the necessary rights due to all black men and women. His ideas on repatriation and his Black Star Liner company inspired the Rastafari movement and African consciousness and his pronouncement of the coming of a great black king in Africa turned their heads toward the coronation of H.I.M. Selassie I in Ethiopia. Marcus Garvey was clearly way ahead of his time and nobody could ever doubt his greatness. He had a very strong character and with this also came a very strong opinion.

However, Marcus's strong persona rubbed some people the wrong way. While both were proponents of Pan-Africanism, Garvey didn't have many kind words for American civil rights leader W.E.B. DuBois and they were bitter rivals with different ideas on how to help black people, somewhat like a much more pronounced MLK and Malcolm X disagreement. Garvey didn't have kind words for H.I.M. Haile Selassie I either, which some people find odd considering the two are almost tied together as one in Rastafari philosophy. In fact, they both make up part of the Bobo Shanti concept of the holy trinity. Marcus even had gone to the belly of the beast and met with leaders of the KKK to discuss the separation of the races, needless to say this was extremely controversial. He considered their open hatred of black people to be honest whereas he held every other white person as a potential Klansman... sad, but perhaps true. Finally, everywhere he went, the government despised Marcus. He was not beloved in Jamaica, and when he went to the United States he was eventually put in prison over some supposed charges of fraud... almost surely a racist tactic. Certainly Marcus had his flaws, as does any man or woman upon this earth. Not everyone was fond of him, including other black activists. However, time will judge him as a progressive man, a courageous man and someone who awakened the consciousness of black people and shook the rest of the world into realizing that times had to change. The wonderful things that Marcus Garvey did far outweigh any mistakes he made or criticism he received.

As a Rastaman and a firm believer in racial equality and justice I consider Marcus Garvey a hero of mine. It is not always an easy fit, because some of my ideologies as a historian do not match his own, and I am a white male, far from the experiences that drove Marcus' philosophies and opinions. He was a separatist, I believe in cooperation of the races and integration. He abhorred any interracial relationships, I could not agree with that as a general statement. Some of his judgments seem more problematic than helpful as if he occasionally lacked faith in the general goodness of human beings. So, I can't say I agree with everything Marcus Garvey advocated, some of it seemed very unreasonable and eccentric, but maybe it was necessary at the time, maybe it was the right way. That of course is my personal take on Marcus, for it is necessary that I approach him different than a black man or woman. I could never separate Garvey from Rastafari nor could I deny him. Ultimately, the key to overstanding Marcus is to know that he lived in a world quite different from mine today, after all he passed on in 1940 in an age where any national or worldwide progress for people of African decent was still at a relative standstill.

Yes it can be rough, it can be harsh... but I love Marcus Garvey for what he taught me, for what he did for the betterment of my black brothers and sisters, and for the way in which he made the world listen to his message. I don't think Garvey gets enough respect outside of the Rastafari culture. In fact the last popular reference to him was seeing his face on rapper Ludacris' t-shirt in his music video "Pimpin' All Over The World". I'm not too sure Marcus would appreciate going along for that ride and he certainly would never allow the use of the n-word in his presence. Rather, I think ones should read his speeches, his poems, and his collected writings in his Philosophies and Opinions. His memory should be honored and his ideas should be learned and discussed for the sake of education and progress. The struggle will never be over until there are equal rights and justice for all people throughout the world and Africa is restored to its proper glory as the cradle of humanity. Happy Earthstrong to the Right Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey! Hold them, Marcus! Teach them, Marcus!

Love & Respect,
JAHsh Concurz

JAH Bless Joseph Hill

I received some sad news this morning that a great singer and inspiration in the Rastafari movement passed away yesterday, Joseph Hill of the reggae group Culture. I remember the day long ago when a bredren of mine first introduced me to Culture's music and after hearing Joseph Hill's conscious, heartical, and thoughtful lyrics I had a very strong respect and admiration for him. I could listen to a Culture tune and come out better for it. He was one of the classic artists from the golden age of reggae, having had a firm foundation, and still continued to tour and provide new music to both his people in Jamaica and internationally. He never sold out or bowed down, he just continued to speak the Truth and share the message. Listening to Father Joseph's music you felt he was speaking directly from the heart with much love and wisdom, like a teacher gently schooling the Rasta children. I deeply regret having never seen him perform as I remember having a couple of opportunities to catch a show. However Joseph Hill's voice will forever be immortalized on the many albums that Culture released since the 1970's and his teachings and commentary will resonate in the hearts of his Rastafari fans. JAH Bless Joseph Hill, a true Rastaman, troddin' to Mt. Zion. Farewell,"Humble African". You will be missed, but Rasta never die, Selassie I!

JAHsh

Joseph Hill
January 22, 1949 - August 19, 2006

"I was travelling up the mountains one day
And suddenly I heard the voice come to I&I say ay
Behold I come quickly to pay every man
According to the work that he have done

And I know that it was the voice
The voice of the Most High...
And I know, yes I know, that it was the voice
The voice of the Most High...
Should Behold
Behold... I come quickly
Hear what he say to one and all!
Behold
Behold... I come quickly"

- Joseph Hill (Culture)

Where Are You Going?

I'm sure most of you have heard of the common phrase, "you need to understand where he is coming from", or something to that effect. However I say, it is not where you are coming from but where you are going. Forward ever, backwards never! Are you trodding toward Mount Zion, or staying miserable in Babylon? Lot's wife turned to a pillar of salt because she was looking back at Sodom and Gomorrah even though JAH said to keep it moving. The past can become a heavy burden, and also an excuse for certain behaviors. This is especially prevalent in the case of individuals. When ones live in the past they begin to adopt a false sense of reality, and refuse to make any advancement. The past could have been traumatic, or it could even have been glorious... either way it is looking back. Yes, there are stages of movements forward, one cannot be pushed or forced into it, the revelation of Truth is a natural mystic. So some people progress at different rates, every fruit in its due season. The true problem is when one recognizes where they should be going and what it takes to be progressive-minded but instead chooses to foolishly believe that they are unnacountable for themselves or they go and stagnate in self-pity. These attitudes never get people anywhere.

Even those who study the situation and explain and complain never really promote action and instead they become cynical and fill their heads with negative thoughts. What does this do besides possess an otherwise productive mind. One step forward, two steps backward. It is a trick of the devilman I say! Trickery comes in disguise as usual... dependant on human emotions, on angers, on pains, and devoid of any common sense or betterment. You may be able to fool some people, but you cannot fool JAH. Wicked man go tell JAH that you had to keep selling drugs to the youth, keep pimping the women on the street, and keep shooting the next man because that is what you knew from growing up. Do you think that bag of excuse can go pass? JAH seh no. It may give you street cred, but no credit with the Most High. Each man can think for himself, each man is capable of rising above, and given the chance to rise above... like it or not, there is no hiding place.

This is not to say that the past is not important, especially when it comes to collective identity, for who can ever forget the words of the Honorable Marcus Garvey, "A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots." Roots and Culture is what I&I Rastafari people deal with. Why? Because it reminds us of who we are, who we are supposed to be... and also who we are not supposed to be. Rastafari history, African history, Israelite history... histories of righteousness, histories of injustice... these are vital to the Rastaman. I am a history teacher and student, I am fully aware of its importance and the fact that without guidance, history does repeat itself. However there is an important system of checks and balances. Everyman must know their past... but nobody ever said anything about living in it. The past serves the future. Take the wicked man example. How much more rich is his future after putting aside the badman mentality? He can look back and see how far him trod, look at it as a reminder, rather than glorifying it. Also the past should be remembered and never forgotten in order to keep moving forward and avoid repeating the same cyclical sins of racism, sexism, and warfare.

His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I was progressive-minded, and is an excellent example of the balance of moving forward while honoring the past. He made efforts to modernize his country of Ethiopia, advance the African people, and also fought for the cooperation of all nations in the world. Despite any contradictive mythologies or stories, Selassie I eventually forgave the Italians for their invasion of Ethiopia, making efforts toward peace with the post-war Italian government and holding council with the Vatican... although he never forgot the horrific injustices done to his people and let it serve as a reminder to the whole world. H.I.M. did not spend his precious time in bitterness or live his life in past wrongs or injustices... even though His Majesty had every right to do so. He did not promote hate or negative attitudes. In his divine judgment he set an example for JAH people. Selassie I know! While being progressive, at the same time H.I.M. was also a traditionalist and was a strong advocate of his heritage as the descendant of Solomon and Sheba, steward of the Throne of David and Earth's rightful ruler. Biblical and Ethiopian history was the foundation to his reign and no modernization could ever change the ancient Truth of history or make H.I.M. bow before any world power, science or philosophy of man.

In the end, I&I must remember that life is not an emphasis on the future either. The future can hold its share of false hopes too. How many times have people been promised something in order to placate the masses? How many times have people been told that there is a diamond in the sky and to wait for heaven's sake? More commonly, how many times do we withhold good things and put them aside for later, things like love, forgiveness, and productiveness. There is nothing wrong with looking forward to promises of the future, it gives us a sense of direction, but standing there gazing at it on a map gets us nowhere. Forget about changing the past and stop worrying about the future... deal with the present moment, deal with now. What are you doing for yourself now? What is he or she doing for theirself now? What is being done now to rectify the wrongs of the past and prepare for a better future? Bredrens and sistrens remember these two things... the time is now, and the movement is forward. Rastafari!

Guidance and Blessed Love Everytime,
JAHsh