Rastas are set apart from other people because they refuse to do certain things:

1. Rastas do not serve Babylon’s System – Rastas do not bow to Babylon, the mindset that demands blind obedience. They do not put trust in the promises of Babylon. Rastas do not get caught up in political games. They value wisdom, it may seem like non-conformity but its liberation. Rastas do not let the Babylon system define them. They know that is a system built on the backs of the poor. They live outside of the Babylon system with strength, vision and trust in the Most High.

2. Rastas do not worship man or money – Rasta work to live not live to work. They do not worship others; their allegiance is to Jah alone. They revere Haile Selassie but do not worship him. Rastas understand that money is a tool to purchase and pay bills but it can cause greed and anxiety. Wealth is measured in freedom, health and wisdom. The treasures of a Rasta are stored within the living spirit.

3. Rastas do not eat the food of Babylon – Rastas do not eat genetically modified chemically treated processed foods. Foods filled with additives, preservatives and hormones- the food of greed. Instead, they eat from the land: fresh fruits, ground provisions, herbs and roots. They eat Ital because they live clean in mind, body and spirit. Rastas cook consciously and bless their food staying close to Jah.

4. Rastas do not cut their locks – The dreadlocks of a Rasta are not a fashion statement. Dreadlocks are a living symbol of spiritual power, resistance to the system and ancestral pride. They let their hair grow freely. Their locks are roots connecting them to their ancestors, to Africa and the Lion of Judah. Rastas cutting their hair would mean cutting off a part of their identity and their energy and most of all their commitment to Jah.

5. Rastas do not use ganga recreationally – Ganga is holy. True Rastas do not abuse ganga. They know that it is a healing plant used during prayer and reasoning used to uplift and to align. Ganga is used with discipline, righteousness and purpose. It is a healing plant used with reverence, purpose and intention.

6. Rastas do not speak negatively words – Rastas know that words have power. True Rastas are very careful with how they speak. Rastas speak life, light and truth because what you chant you become. True Rastas do not engage in gossip, use insults and hateful words. They speak positively because Rastas know that the word is sacred.

7. Rastas do not fear death – Rastas see death as a transition: a doorway from one phase of existence to another. Rastas know that the body is temporary and that life is more than the flesh. Rastas live fully but consciously. Their home is Zion a spiritual place of peace, righteousness and oneness with the Most High.