By Biko Lion – August 8, 2021 | Teachings of H.I.M.
“Justice is the fundamental axiom for the survival of freedom and government.”
– H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I
Emperor Haile Selassie I, the King of Kings and Conquering Lion of Judah, stood firmly as a champion of righteousness, justice, and equality. His Majesty’s teachings continue to guide the RasTafari movement and all truth-seekers committed to higher moral consciousness.
Justice, as spoken by H.I.M., is more than a legal principle—it is the cornerstone of freedom and good governance. It is rooted in moral rightness, rationality, divine law, and the spiritual responsibility of equity and fairness.
Likewise, equality is the condition in which all people, regardless of race or status, are granted the same rights, opportunities, and human dignity. The vision of Haile Selassie I calls upon us to uphold these principles in our daily lives and communities.
The Wise Mind of H.I.M.: On Justice
“Unless the rights of the least of men are as assiduously protected as those of the greatest, the seeds of confidence will fall on barren soil.”
Without the protection of the least among us, no society can truly prosper. True justice means defending those without voice or power as fiercely as those with privilege. It is this integrity that cultivates confidence and peace.
Where justice is absent, peace cannot take root. And where there is no peace, there can be no civilization. Thus, justice must not only be present but be foundational to every government and every freedom-loving people.
On Racial Discrimination
“Racial discrimination means the negation of the moral equity of all men and the deprivation of the African of his dignity and personality.”
Racial injustice is a direct assault on human dignity. It devalues the worth of the African and denies the sacred equity of all humanity. As RasTafari, we must rise against this global plague and strive for a world that recognizes the divine image in every man.
Those who rest content while others are oppressed betray the moral teachings of justice and equality. We must not be satisfied until all barriers of race and class are broken, and until justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.
On Character, Brotherhood, and Duty
“He who is worthy of praise amongst men is the man who, animated by sentiments of justice, perseveres in the way of equity.”
Fame and fortune are not the highest honors. Praise belongs to the one who walks in the path of justice, who stands firm in the face of inequality, and who sacrifices self for the betterment of others. Such men understand that unity is strength, and without justice and equality, true unity is impossible.
We must strive unselfishly to build a world where the rights of all are safeguarded, and no one is left behind. This is the duty of the spiritually awakened.
A Call to Action
Let the teachings of Haile Selassie I ignite the flame of righteousness in your heart. Let them move you to act—not just speak—for the protection of human dignity and the upliftment of the oppressed.
Justice. Equality. Unity. These are not ideals of the past—they are the mandates of today.
May this message inspire you to walk uprightly, defend the weak, and labor for a brighter tomorrow—for all humanity.