Is Rasta A Religion?
A: Let's see...the definition of a religion: a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects.
...and if I might add there is usually a symbol of worship in the midst of these beliefs, plus a sacred manual for teaching the principles to all prospective followers.
Applying this to Rastafarians, yes there are of fundamental principles which are sacred to the way of life...and the god of worship is Haile Selassie. I know not of any written manual, but the rastafarian principles are so deeply rooted that one can account for it virtual existence.
...so based upon that It may be safe to say it is a religion.
However, some take it just as a way of life...meaning that they apply some of the principles to their rastafarian lifestyle, but not all.
