A cultural meeting long before the birth of reggae

When people think of hemp and reggae, Bob Marley is the first image that comes to mind. Yet the story connecting Jamaica and ganja began long before the 1970s. Its roots lie in a rich blend of Indian, African and Caribbean influences.

From India to the island of Jamaica

After the abolition of slavery in 1838, Jamaica welcomed many workers from India. They brought with them several spiritual traditions – meditation, vegetarian diets and the ritual use of hemp, known in Sanskrit as ganja.

The plant quickly took root on the island and became a familiar cultural element over time.

A spiritual message paving the way for Rastafari

In the early 20th century, Jamaican preacher James Morris Webb spread a powerful message: political liberation alone was not enough. True freedom required an inner return to Africa. He predicted the coronation of a black king who would guide the descendants of enslaved people toward spiritual renewal.

This vision became the foundation of the Rastafari movement – a spiritual path blending Judeo-Christian elements, African heritage and Indian influences.

The core principles of Rastafari

Many Rastafarians follow key principles in their daily lives:

• wearing natural hair – leading to the iconic dreadlocks,
• avoiding alcohol,
• following a primarily vegetarian diet,
• practicing meditation and reading sacred texts,
• living simply and respectfully with nature.

Within this philosophy, ganja holds a sacred place. It is seen as a plant that enhances meditation, introspection and spiritual elevation.

Haile Selassie – the spiritual figure behind a global movement

In 1930, Haile Selassie I was crowned Emperor of Ethiopia. Many Jamaicans saw this as the fulfilment of the long-announced prophecy. Selassie became a central spiritual figure of Rastafari.

When he visited Jamaica in 1966, the moment deeply moved Rita Marley, who perceived it as a spiritual sign. Bob Marley embraced Rastafari soon after.

Reggae: music, message and symbol

Marley incorporated the movement’s core themes into his music: universal love, dignity for the oppressed, spiritual awakening, connection to Africa and the sacred use of hemp.

Reggae emerged from ska, rocksteady and African rhythms and soon became a global voice for political and spiritual expression.

The international breakthrough

In 1973, during a trip to Jamaica, Eric Clapton discovered Bob Marley and his unique power as an artist. His cover of I Shot the Sheriff became a global hit and catapulted Marley into worldwide recognition.

Through this, Western audiences discovered not only reggae but also Rastafari culture and its deep connection to hemp.

A legacy that continues

The bond between hemp, reggae and Rasta remains a vibrant global symbol. For Bob Marley, the plant represented unity and spiritual healing:

“Herb is the healing of the nation.”