Heart of Rastafari
Jamaica has been described for centuries as the most beautiful island in the world,
known for the richness of its culture, the perfection of its climate, and its exquisite
vistas, beaches and waterfalls. More recently it has emerged at the spiritual heart of
the Caribbean from which the vibrant, One Love spirit of Rastafari has spread reggae
music and the values of peace and natural living across the whole planet.
What exactly is Rastafari? Where and how did it arise? What are its
beliefs, rituals, forms of artistic expression, and strategies for natural
living and 'Chanting Down Babylon,' liberating humanity from mental and social oppression? This week at
the serene and beautiful West End of Negril, surrounded by turquoise sea, pure blue sky, and rich greenery,
aims to introduce participants to the depth and vitality of Jamaican culture with special emphasis on the
spirituality, art, music and reasoning of Rastafari - one of Jamaica's most extraordinary and most loved
gifts to the world.
Distinguished authors, scholars and poets will speak to us on the
origins of Rastafari , the influence of
the 17th century Maroon culture of escaped slaves, the varieties of
Caribbean religious experience, and
Rastafari as a highly creative and influential response to centuries of exile and hardship. Days will be
spent exploring the immense natural beauty of the island, chilling with the waves, and soaking up the
uniquely good vibes that only Jamaica can offer.
This unique week will also include live reggae music, poetry, tribal drumming, delightful walks to valleys
and caves, and plenty of time to relax and enjoy the exquisite natural surroundings of sea, sky, and lush
flora. !e Quest also offers plentiful opportunities for silence, sacred time, and attunement to nature.
We will also visit the
Rastafari Indigenous Village in Montego Bay where we will speak with the elders and understand more of Rasta
'livity,' language, healing practices, culture, and vision for the future.
We invite you to leave behind the winter blues and join the Open Center's
first tropical quest in the Caribbean.
Co-sponsored with the Rastafari Indigenous Village and Jackie's on the Reef.
Presenters include:
Barry Chevannes, Yasus Afari, Barbara Blake Hannah and elders from the Indigenous Village.
Conference fee (including meals): $1325 Early Bird (before February 1st), $1425 after that date
Accommodation costs vary - see www.opencenter.org/jamaica or call the Open Center for details.
For more information, visit www.opencenter.org, call 212 219 2527 ext. 2 or email jamaica@opencenter.org.
