An Interview of a Rastafari Bredrin from Kenya

From The Rastafari Expression,
A regular column by Kaya I IsesaJah, Sep 20, 2005         

KI. Education was always stressed by King Selassie 1, how important and what should Ini being to educate our youth, to supplement the Babylonian Education which the system provides?

GM. The King continually impressed upon his people the importance of education for the development of the Nation and oneself. It is invaluable for growth. InI can supplement on the Babylonian system by teaching InI children from home, taking them to the Ethiopian Church and encouraging the opening up of Rastafari schools

KI. What is the idea behind” not every dread is a Rasta and not every Rasta is a dread?

GM. I think the statement speaks for itself. The concept of locks was something that came about after the birth of Rastafari I believe in the Community of Pinnacle operated by Howell. Seeing photographs of MauMau and Betawie’s of Ethiopia inspired it. The locks cannot save a one and indeed the locks have become a fashion in many circles. The Book of Numbers 6 talks of letting the locks of the head grow long during the period of ones separation unto the Lord until that separation is fulfilled.The book of Acts 21:23-24 speaks of the So locks can be only for a time or one does not need to have it at all. It is in many respects an Afro centric _expression of abandonment of the system but not a must to be a Rastafari like some would like to promote.

KI. What is your opinion about the different ‘Houses' or ‘Mansions’ within Rastafari?

GM. The fundament problems of the different Houses or Mansions are that it breeds disunity and confusion in that some say this and others says that all claiming to be the right way. InI must speak with one voice. Of course according to the geographical, economic and social conditions where ones live will naturally bring about some difference in daily livity but the fundamental tenets of Rastafari should be the same where ever one lives or whichever House or Mansion one belongs to.

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KI. Does the I belong or align yourself with any house?

GM. My alignment is to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, which the King is the Head of. I get involved in the activities designed to bring about centralization of all the Houses or Mansions. I believe the Ethiopian World Federation Inc, should be promoted and supported by all Rastafari as the King Himself established this Organization.

KI. Have you heard of the newer groups like the Fulfilled rastafari, the Orthodox Rastafari, or the Messianic Rastafari? Any opinion.

GM. I have heard of Fulfilled and Orthodox Rastafari and Rastafarians for Eyesus Kristos. Any movement established to bring about a closer adherence of the teachings of the King cannot be a bad thing for InI and should therefore be supported.

KI. There are some nay views and ideas of InI of Rastafari should sight His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I, in terms of divinity, would you care to comment?

GM. InI can either listen to the traditions of men or the teachings of the King. He spoke of his love and following of our Savior Eyesus Kristos. InI cannot go wrong if InI follow His example.