Andre Jebbinson, Staff ReporterBOB MARLEY and the Wailers set the standard as the poster boys for the dreadlocks that have almost became synonymous with socially conscious reggae performers. But the once stringent rigours of Rastafarianism, with which locks are intertwined, are now being compromised due to what some call evolution.
It has now become acceptable for some to indulge in grooming for a more clean and presentable look. But many Rastafarians are against the practice. "You have some man who think they should shave their beard so it can please the ladies some more. But what they should do is make the ladies accept them for what they are and realise what it comes with," said Junior Reid. "People might look at the long hair and the long beard in a way, but that is all a part of it."
DREADLOCKS
For Rastas, the razor, the scissors and the comb are taboo. Many non-Rastafarians of African descent have also adopted dreadlocks as an expression of pride in their identity, or
simply as a hairstyle, and take a less purist approach to developing and grooming them, adding various
substances that would offend the Rastafarian.
According to the Rastafarians, dreadlocks are supported by the Bible in Leviticus 21:5, which reads "They shall not make baldness upon their head, neither shall they shave off the corner of their beard, nor make any cuttings in the flesh." They also point to the Nazarite vow in Numbers 6 vs. 5-6.
However, singer and actor Peter Lloyd, who wears locks, thinks that Rastafarism goes beyond the physical appearance. "I live a life that is true and meaningful," Lloyd said of shaving his beard. "People will say what they want to say. I try to be clean and honest. In the end, it is your interaction with other people. You have different types of Rastas. You have the warriors, some who teach, and some who deal with love. I love and teach."
He said he does not drink alcohol, smoke or eat meat. Instead, he tries to live a simple life without the 'bling'.
Reid agreed that the faith is a way of life but maintained that the locks that represent the Lion of Judah should not be tampered with. He believes that the bigger shame comes when others who profess the faith disregard some of the very things that make Rastafarism so sacred. "Real Rasta work, love and do things that are pleasing to Jah," he said.
Gyptian has come into his own as a conscious performer with Serious Times getting serious attention, but does not want to be labelled a Rastafarian. "Nobody can tell me how to run my life. People can't tell me what to do. You have to live you life in a way that makes you comfortable," he said.
