The RASTAFARI CODE OF CONDUCT

Greetings and love in the Names of His and Her Majesties Emperor Haile
Selassie 1st and Empress Menen Asfaw
Bredren and Sistren, Rastafari Administrators, Houses and Organizations,
The Rastafari Code of Conduct is a general guideline of acceptable prac-
tice, covering a broad spectrum of belief within the movement. As such it
outlines the tenets of a unique lifestyle or ‘livity’ which has evolved or-
ganically from the teachings and examples of the Elders. This ‘livity’ has
been passed on through successive generations of Rastafari since the in-
ception of the movement in the 1930s.
Today this evolution of practice continues alongside the worldwide
spread of the movement. Though the central tenets of the movement re-
main immutable and unchanging, revisions and updates are meant to keep
‘livity’ alive and functional, rather than dogmatic and doctrinaire.
The very spread and maturity of the movement demands a level of docu-
mentation that would hitherto have seemed unnecessary – both for adher-
ents of the faith, converts and sympathizers, as well as the growing num-
bers 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 individuals and
groups within the movement to arrive at a summary statement on Rasta-
fari morals, values and the overarching principles of a ‘decent way of
life’.
This code is intended for the Rastafari Nation, to be observed as a moral
guide to the integrity and steadfastness of the Nation. 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 is five years in the making, and many things
were taking into consideration. The framers have considered and debated
the different ideas and opinions of everyone who contributed to its devel-
opment, whether they were done via e-mail, or internet web forums, or
the telephone and meetings.
The recommended Rastafari Code of Conduct was ratified in July–
August 2008 at the Global Nyah Binghi Consultation held at the Nyah
Binghi Grounds, Scott Pass, Clarendon Jamaica, by the Nyah Binghi An-
cient Council and the Nyah Binghi delegates from across the Caribbean,
Africa and the USA.
Further collective input was made by the Nyah Binghi National Council
UK in 2010.
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 passions and desires and an ex-
emplary control of one’s bodily needs and desires.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie
The following Administrators, delegates, along with members of the
Rastafari family, approved the Rastafari Code of Conduct at the
Global Nyah Binghi Consultation July 22nd-30th at Scotts Pass Nyah
Binghi Center, Clarendon, Jamaica.

High Priest George Irons Bongo Mabrack

Bongo Tawney –Chair, Nyah Binghi Bongo Wake I
Ancient Council Ras Muggy Roy
Bongo Ken –Secretary Nyah Binghi
Ancient Council Bongo Job
NYAHBINGHI PRIESTS Mama Fiya
Bongo Shephan Sister Yanzie
Bongo Zato INTERNATIONAL GUESTS
NYAH BINGI ADMINISTRATIVE Bongo Jack (Trinidad)
COUNCIL Bongo Grease (Trinidad)
Ras Flako Tafari Sister Lyris Walker (Trinidad)
Ras Sasse Bongo Italo Tafari (Barbados)
Ras Ivi Sis IIene (Barbados)
Ras Garth Ras Bakarai (Barbados)
Jr Negus Sister Eileen (Barbados)
Bongo Joe Prince Nan Nan (Barbados)
Bongo Manie Ras Raffiki (Barbados)
Ras Shaka James Morrel (Barbados)
Ras Caver Mama Kafe’ (Cote D’Ivoire)
Ras Ista J Dawta InI (Maryland)
RasTafari Tazaddi (St Criox)
NYAHBINGHI ANCIENTS
Bongo Roy
Ras Balewa
Ras Iya-V
Ras Irie Lion
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Special thanks to Qadamawi Haile Selassie and Empress Menen for inspi-
ration, wise-mind, knowledge and overstanding so that InI can magnify
Jah works in all the earth with good behavior, I-tegrity, honesty, and love.
Extended gratitude to: Ethiopia-Het-Heru, Binghi Haiasi, Ras Jahaizel,
Sister Mary Dread.
The Ancient and Administrative Council of the Nyah Binghi along with
all participants on the Code of Conduct Message Board, the NNC (UK),
and to all others who have made their valuable contribution –
Thank you very much indeed.
RasFlako Tafari
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. Learn-
ing and technical training must be nurtured by faith in God, rever-
ence for the human soul, and respect for the reasoning mind.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie.

SELF HELP
The people themselves must come to realize their own difficulties in
the development of their community and try to solve them by collec-
tive participation following an order of priority and taking their po-
tentiality into account.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie

HUMAN DIVERSITY
The very diversity of the world’s people today constitutes one of man-
kind‘s greatest resources; the different philosophies with which na-
tions approach their problems lead inevitably to a vast array of meth-
ods and techniques. These variations are necessary; for each people
must find solutions which are responsive to its particular needs. Each
nation must inevitably pursue that course best suited to its own
unique characteristics. We seek Africa’s economic growth and devel-
opment, the betterment of the way of life of Africans and all men.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie
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 mem-
bers of the human family are endowed with by their Creator are respected
and maintained;

Recognize that African liberation must be the primary concern of all

Rastafari people;

Desire that the Rastafari Code of Conduct should enshrine the above-
mentioned principles for ensuring the protection of InI fundamental prac-
tices, lifestyle, and freedoms;

We (InI) declare that the following provisions shall embody the Code of
Conduct of the Rastafari Nation.
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 liberation, Repatriation and Reparation,
and to labour unceasingly towards the achievement of these goals.
InI also seek world peace and goodwill among all mankind, working al-
ways 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. Emperor Haile
Selassie I, 23rd July 1892, and the Coronation date of both the Emperor
and Empress on 2nd November 1930, these being two major dates in the
Rastafari calendar.
At all gatherings of spiritual observance and solemn occasions, the rules
and laws of the host Mansion or House shall apply, and should be ob-
served by all ones in attendance.
However, certain exemptions should be made for visitors to any such
gathering according to the individual House or Mansion’s rules. Provision
should be made to accommodate visitors who do not belong to any House
or Mansion (eg. Dress-code, etc.)
All are advised that the Sacred Herb (I-cense) may be burnt in an incense
pot/altar, for the cleansing of the tabernacle and for sanctification of the
space. A smoking room should also be made available for personal use
(as not every one may wish to full-take in smoking).
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, peace-
able, and solemn as befits such occasions
Only brethren are allowed on harps (drums)at Nyah Binghi ceremonial
programs called” Ises.” Whereas the Sistrens are allowed play shakers
and other hand-held rhythmic instruments.
At non ceremonial programs the Sisters are permitted to play harps in
their own groups eg The Empress Menen Liberators in Jamaica.
All are advised and expected to abide by the observances of the officiat-
ing priests and elders.
COMMITMENT TO AFRICAN UPLIFTMENT

Domestically, we can build strong and happy and resourceful socie-

ties. Internationally, we can force the end of oppression of man by
man and nation by nation. We can bring about the security and mu-
tual trust which will open the way to the greater human achievements
for which the needs of mankind now cry out.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie
RESPONSIBILITY TO GLOBAL FELLOWSHIP AND WORLD
PEACE
Let us not bemuse ourselves with the notion that it is any more possi-
ble to legislate equality, for these matters concern attitudes and val-
ues over which intellect sadly exercises but little control.
Let us not recoil in hatred against those who, even while protecting
their freedom from bias and prejudice, reveal by their actions that
the poison of discrimination has left its lasting effects, and by this re-
action reveal that we, no less than they, are prey to unreasoning emo-
tion, that we, no less than they, are susceptible to that virus which is
called intolerance.
Qadamawi 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 humankind also extends to all living crea-
tures 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 hall-
marks of InI interaction with each other, with Africans, and with the
global community of nations. Rastafari is a nation scattered among na-
tions, and by our orderly conduct and behavior InI become a light to the
entire world.

We must become something we have never been and for which our
education and experience have ill prepared us. We must become big-
ger than we have ever been: more courageous, greater in spirit, lar-
ger in outlook. We must become members of a new race, overcoming
petty prejudice, owing our ultimate allegiance not to nations but to
our fellow men within the human community.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie
 HEALTH AND DIETARY PRACTICE
“There is nothing precious to man as 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 spiri-
tual 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 posterity of the nation.
Just as education insures protection of man’s knowledge
in all fields of endeavor, 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” - Herbert
Spencer
Natural and holistic methods of health care are highly rec-
ommended. However, in instances where the circum-
stances may be so life-threatening 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 n atu ral foo ds and follow the holistic prin-
ciples o f 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 con-
sumption of naturally grown foods. Ital diet cleanses
Ones should abstain from:

Animal products and by-products

Processed foods and Genetically Modified foods

Sodium salt
The use of salt-free and natural herb seasonings is rec-
ommended.
(In some cultures around the world seafood is eaten as
part of the dietary custom. It is a fact that some Rasta-
fari are fishermen and partake of their catch. However,
seafoods that are scavengers should be avoided).

Also to be avoided are:

Drunkenness: The use of alcoholic beverages (all forms of
beer, stouts and wines);
The use and sale of Drugs (Legal or Illegal);
[Drugs: meaning (and including) crack, cocaine, barbitu-
rates, pills, pharmaceuticals, and any other s yn th etic
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.
As we guarantee to each the right to worship as
he/she chooses, so we denounce the policy that
sets man against man on the issue of religion.
Qadamawi 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 discuss the issues concerned in a very
open manner and attempt 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.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie

In the event of disputes, the parties involved should be

taken before a Grievance Committee of the Organiza-
tion or Mansion that they belong to. Evidence that is
collected, should then determine the resolution an d / or
disciplinary action by the Grievance Committee.
Failing resolution by the Grievance Committee, the evi-
dence collected on the matter should be turned over to
the executive administration of said Organization or
Mansion.
NON-MANSION

Rastafari (ones) who do not belong to any organization or

Mansion are advised to take their disputes to any of the
existing 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 Grievance Committee or administration of
said Mansion or Organization.
Rastafari (on es) who do not belong to any Man-
sion or organization, 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 mat-
ter should be referred to the appropriate local
authorities for resolution.
Ones should abstain from:
Using the methods of justice of the State, except
in extreme situations where the State 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
the Rastafari family..
Ones should abstain from:
Using the methods of justice of the State, except
in extreme situations where the State 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
the Rastafari family..

Ones 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,
I-ncients, Guardians of the Faith;
Acknowledge the contributions of the Patriarchs,
Matriarchs, and Founding Fathers of the
Faith;
Never use the ancients to obtain money for personal bene-
fits;
Always acknowledge the contribution of African Leaders,
African Liberators and Freedom Fighters, noting impor-
tant dates and events in the African Calendar.
RASTAFARI REGGAE MUSICIANS,SINGERS,PRO-
MOTERS, MCs & DJ’S

Should always:
Maintain the roots and cultural lyrics of the music and
the standard set by the pioneers who used 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 economic development of the Rastafari Nation.

Ones should refrain from:

Using th e n ames o f Qadamawi Haile Selassie and Em-
press Menen casually or in vain while on or off stage;
Creating music and dance that trivializes a woman’s
sexuality or tramples on her I-tegrity and self-
worth, or influences 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, se xu ally explicit or
immoral behavior.
CONCERNING RIGHTS OF PASSAGE:
Birth (sanctification of newborns), marriage, passing
and interment
Birth
Within some Houses (eg. Nyah Binghi) a cere-
mony has been ritualized to welcome and sanctify
newborns in the community. 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 commu-
nity with joyful chants and jubilation.
[If the family of the newborn is not a member of
the House or Mansion and request such sanctifica-
tion, the individuals involved must agree to accept
the fundamental teachings of Rastafari livity.)

Marriage
A marriage ceremony is also in the process of
being established, 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 is now in place for the individual
to be laid to rest, and for their earthly contribution to
the Rastafari Nation to be remembered and cele-
brated.
Cremation is now being considered as an ac-
ceptable final rite for ones who so desire.
All ceremonies should be performed by a certi-
fied Rastafari Priest or Chaplin.
SEXUAL ACTIVITIES
The following practices are forbidden by Rastafari codes of moral
behavior

Homosexuality
Sodomy
Sex with children or animals
Rape
Oral Sex
Prostitution
Whoredom

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 involv-
ing multiple partners;
Displaying any activity in public that depicts sexual intent.
Princes and Princesses must trod out of Babylon
InI Ithiopians now stretch forth our hands unto Jah.
Oh Jah of Ithiopia, InI Ivine Majesty,
Thy Irits trod unto InI dwelling in the path of righteousness. Lead
InI.
Help InI to forgive, that InI must be forgiven.
Teach InI love, loyalty on earth, as It is in Mt Zion.
Endow InI with wise-mind, knowledge and over-standing to do thy
will.
Thy blessings to InI be
That 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 fruit-
ful in these perilous days
When our enemies are passed away and decayed in the depths of the
sea, in the depths of the earth, in the belly of the beast, and in the
lake of burning fire,
Oh 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 now and for Iver, A Man,
KIng Alpha and Queen 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 Jah Rastafari!!!
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

7TH January: Ethiopian Feast of the Nativity

1st March: Battle of Adowa
25th March: Empress Menen’s Earthday
18th April 1966: H.I.M.’s Visit to Trinidad and Tobago
21 April 1966: H.I.M.’s Visit to Jamaica
Good Friday: The Coral Gardens Atrocity Anniversary Commemoration
25th May: African Liberation Day
16th June: The First Patriarch Leonard Howell’s Earthday
17th August: Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey’s Earthday
11th September: Ethiopian New Year
2ND November: His and Her Imperial Majesty’s Coronation
The tolerance of dissent and criticism within a Govern-
ment proceeds from a single essential premise: that the
Government exists to serve the people generally. Govern-
ment servants, whether designated as representatives or
not, have a trust to work for the general welfare.-
Qadamawi Haile Selassie

Domestically, we can build strong and happy and re-

sourceful 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.
Qadamawi Haile Selassie

Liberate the minds of men and ultimately you will liberate

the bodies of men.
Marcus Garvey

There is no force like success, and that is why the individ-

ual makes all effort to surround himself throughout life
with the evidence of it; as of the individual, so should it be
of the nation.
Marcus Garvey

A people without the knowledge of their past history, ori-

gin and culture is like a tree without roots.
Marcus Garvey
Liberate the minds of men and ultimately you will liberate the bodies of men.
Marcus Garvey