When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you.
African Proverb
Since the surge of colonization, Africans have been told that their religions and beliefs were evil, unfounded, and just plain wrong. In exchange for throwing away their beliefs, European colonizers provided Christianity and Islam to ‘redeem’ their souls to salvation. This trade was done out of fear and angst.
Now that the world is changing and we have more freedom, we need to reclaim our power which is in fact rooted in our original spirituality. It is important to educate ourselves on what our ancestors believed in; and practice it fearlessly and freely.
Here Are A Few Beliefs You Should Know:
Bad Mind: Jamaicans believe this describes a person who is jealous and hateful of others; they pray for the downfall and failure of those they hate. Steer clear of these types of people.
Ancestor Worship: We have a deep connection to those in our families who have passed on; create an altar to honour them and provide offerings for more blessings.
Atunwa (Reincarnation): The Yoruba religion believes that an ancestor returns through a newborn baby. The child is born with all the wisdom and knowledge that the ancestor accumulated throughout their life.
Ital Diet: In Rastafarianism, it is believed that a pure diet consisting of organic, plant-based foods is the key to vitality and a heightened connection to source.
Animism: The Voodoo belief that spirits are in everything, including plants and animals.
