An Introduction to the Twelve Tribes Mansion within Rastafari
1. Overview of the Twelve Tribes of Israel
The Twelve Tribes of Israel is a Rastafari mansion founded in 1968 by Prophet Gad (Vernon Carrington) in Kingston, Jamaica. It is one of the most organized and globally recognized Rasta groups. The Twelve Tribes blend biblical teachings with the divinity of Haile Selassie I, emphasizing individual study of scripture, education, and balanced living.
🔯 2. Core Identity & Structure
- Members are assigned to one of the 12 tribes based on their birth month, corresponding to the biblical sons of Jacob (Israel).
- Each tribe has an associated color, character trait, and symbolic stone.
- Haile Selassie I is recognized as the returned Messiah, rooted in the Davidic lineage.
| Tribe | Birth Month | Color | Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reuben | April | Red | Mandrake |
| Simeon | May | Orange | Sword |
| Levi | June | Yellow | Breastplate |
| Judah | July | Green | Lion |
| Issachar | August | Pink | Donkey |
| Zebulun | September | Purple | Ship |
| Dan | October | Blue | Scales |
| Gad | November | Brown | Tent |
| Asher | December | Grey | Olive Tree |
| Naphtali | January | Light Blue | Deer |
| Joseph | February | White | Sheaf |
| Benjamin | March | Black | Wolf |
📜 3. Theology and Beliefs
- One God (Jah) — revealed through Jesus Christ and His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I.
- Bible-based faith — Old and New Testaments are studied.
- Christ-centered livity — members often refer to themselves as “Christian Rastas.”
- Haile Selassie I is seen as the fulfillment of Revelation and a living example of righteousness and kingship.
✝️ 4. Lifestyle Practices
- Daily Bible Reading – Members are encouraged to read the Bible daily in order from Genesis to Revelation.
- Church attendance and music – Reggae and praise music are often used in worship settings.
- No rigid dress code, but members often wear tribe colors and rep natural living.
- Encouraged to work, raise families, and contribute to society positively.
- Repatriation to Africa is encouraged spiritually and physically when possible.
🎶 5. Cultural Influence
- The Twelve Tribes have a major influence on reggae music — artists like Bob Marley, Fred Locks, and Dennis Brown were associated with the mansion.
- Their messages emphasize freedom, scripture, and righteous living without isolating from the world.
🌍 6. Global Reach
The Twelve Tribes have headquarters in Jamaica and branches in the U.S., U.K., Ethiopia, Ghana, and beyond. They engage in:
- Mission work
- Cultural education
- Community service and upliftment
🛐 7. Worship and Gatherings
- Sabbath Observance: Many observe the Sabbath on Saturday.
- Tribal Meetings: Gatherings often happen by tribe or as one house.
- Feast Days:
- November 2 – Coronation of H.I.M.
- July 23 – Birthday of Haile Selassie I
- Christmas (often observed December 25 and January 7)
🧘🏾♂️ 8. Key Values
- Love and unity among all people
- Education, family, and discipline
- Self-reliance and natural living
- Respect for elders and overstanding the scriptures
🔑 Common Sayings and References
- “Read your Bible a chapter a day”
- “Jah live, children yes Jah live”
- “Rastafari is not a religion — it’s a way of life”
- “One God, One Aim, One Destiny”
📦 In Correctional or Re-entry Settings:
- Daily Bible access and reading space
- Recognition of H.I.M. Haile Selassie I as divine
- Freedom to wear headwraps or dreadlocks
- Tribe-colored materials or respectful clothing
- Spiritual support through reasoning or Rasta chaplain visits
Contact for Support & Clarification: Sanctuary of the Rastafarian Order (SOTRO)
Email: support@jahlove,ca
Web: www.jahlove.ca
Leave a Reply