Rastafarians and the ‘special plant’

We all know how special this plant is, whether we’ve experienced it ourselves or been told about it or even been around a person who worshipped it. And by special I mean something so wanted one could move to the end of the world for it. But the thing is that Rastafarians are the ones who seem to love it the most and the question here is, why? It doesn’t have to be the dreadlocks on one’s head that say one is a herb smoker. The most serious looking of people can sit next to you in a restaurant with well kempt hair, Barack Obama’s The Audacity of Hope in his hand, sipping on a cup of coffee but also a bonafide herb smoker and you won’t even know it. This plant, commonly known as weed or ganja is as popular as MC Hammer back in the day. People even grow it in their own backyards. popular as it is, it is also common knowledge that it is illegal in most countries. It’s no wonder Amsterdam is on most people’s ‘to go’ list! Rastafarians have their own beliefs about the plant. According to them, Ganja is considered the “wisdom weed”, as its use helps one to gain wisdom. Rastafarians use it as a part of a religious ritual and as a means of getting closer to their inner spiritual self, Jah (God) as they refer to Him and Creation. Ganja is also seen by Rastafarians as the herb of life mentioned in the Bible. Even though it is illegal, 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 service of man, that he may bring forth food out of the earth.” Rastafarians also say it was found growing at the grave of King Solomon in the Bible. They consume it through smoking and eating although the latter is not recommended. Some people even put it in their tea! The smoking of Ganja is part of a religious ritual practiced all over the world. However true Rastafarians do not smoke cigarettes as it is regarded un-natural and dangerous to one’s health. This doesn’t make sense to some people seeing as they are convinced weed damages the brain and makes one crazy. Contrary to what people know, marijuana is not the only plant or herb used by Rastafarians. They use a wide variety of herbs, plants for medicinal and dietary purposes; however, ganja is the most popular. Just like a fat kid with cake, you don’t want to come between a Rasta and his weed! Even if the way it is smoked regulary suggests they are abusing it, they will defend it with their life if they have to and assure you of how a dose on the regular is more than needed. rachelgaruka@yahoo.com