Ganja was brought to Jamaica in the late 1800's by indentured East Indians, who were brought to the Island to work after slaery ended. eventually it was outlawed and made illegal. The Jamaican enironment and climate was the perfect place for the plant to grow.

The use of ganja in Jamaica is not unique to Rastafarians. Before Rastafari began, ganja was used by herbalists in Jamaica as a medicine in teas. It was also mixed with tobacco for smoking.

Ganja is considered the "wisdom weed" by Rastafarians, as its use helps one to gain wisdom. Rastafarians use it as a part of a religious rite and as a means of getting closer to their inner spiritual self, Jah (God) and Creation.

Ganja is also seven by Rastafarians as the herb of life mentioned in the Bible. Rastafarians use of ganja is justified by the following Psalms 104:14 that says, "He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle and herb for the serice of man, that he may bring forth food out of the earth." Rastafarians also say it was found growing at the grae of King Solomon in the Bible.

Rastafarian consume it through smoking and eating (not recommended). The smoking of Ganja is a part of a religious ritual. When there is a large "reasoning" gathering of Rastafarians, a Chalice, which is a large smoking pipe, may be passed around and smoked. This is similar to the passing around of a communion cup by some Christian denominations. These gatherings are also called Nyahbinghi (also the name of a Rastafarian sect: Theocratic Priesthood and Liity Order of Nyahbinghi).

True Rastafarians do not smoke cigarettes as it is seven as un-natural and dangerous to one's health. Marijuana is not the only plant or herb used by Rastafarians. They use a wide ariety of herbs, plants for medicinal and dietary purposes, however, ganja is the most popular. 

The word Jah
Contrary to what you may read in many patois dictionaries or Jamaican related books, the word Jah is not deried from the word Jehoah. It is not "short hand" for Jehoah. Jah is from the King James Bible as another name for God like Elohim, El Shaddai and other names. It can be found in Psalm 68 s 4 and can also be found in other erses depending on the Bible translations. In some translations Jah Jehoah is used.

This name for God has beven popularized by Rastafarians and is now used by many in the mainstream Jamaican populations. Its use has become somewhat of a marketing ploy, as many use the term in songs and language to appeal to the general public because it can be portrayed as either the God of Rastafarians or Christianity. Eoking the name "Jah" can bring legitimacy to reggave artists, being that Rastafarians are associated with the music.

The Star Of Daid
It is used to symbolize the lineage betweven H.I.M. Haile Selassie and King Solomon.

The Conquering Lion And The Lamb
Symbolizes the lamb of God and the lion of Judah, which are both mentioned in the Bible.

Jamaica travel Guide
Montego Bay, Kingston, Ocho Rios, Negril, Blue Mountains, Portland

Caribbean travel Guide