His comments, particularly about dreadlocks and the worship of Satan, have sparked significant debate. Gitwaza stated that dreadlocks are a symbol of Satanism and that the Rastafari movement is fundamentally a religion of evil.

He also suggested that the hairstyle was first introduced by prisoners in the UK. These statements, which have raised concerns and led to backlash, oversimplify and misinterpret the deep cultural, spiritual, and historical roots of Rastafari.

In this article, we will carefully examine Apostle Gitwaza’s remarks, compare them with the actual beliefs and practices of the Rastafari religion, and analyze where his statements may have a kernel of truth, and where they fall short.]

Gitwaza’s Statement on Dreadlocks and Rastafari

Gitwaza stated, "These dreadlocks were introduced by prisoners in the UK. It was not from the Bible. No. When Haile Selassie was in exile in Britain, the prisoners there, who were unable to groom their hair because it had become tangled, were the ones who introduced the idea of growing their hair out into dreadlocks.

They wanted a defense mechanism, claiming that the Nazarites wore long hair. But the Nazarites did not wear dreadlocks."

Here, Gitwaza attempts to explain the origin of dreadlocks in Rastafari by suggesting that prisoners in the UK, particularly those who were followers of the Nazarite vow, started growing their hair out while in prison because they could not maintain it. He states that these prisoners were the ones who created the dreadlock hairstyle.

The True Origins of Dreadlocks in Rastafari

Gitwaza’s explanation of dreadlocks is an oversimplification . The hairstyle’s significance to Rastafari is far deeper than just a result of poor grooming or as a fashion statement adopted in prison. Dreadlocks are actually a spiritual symbol, rooted in the Bible and African heritage, and they carry cultural and religious meaning within the Rastafari movement.

In the Rastafari faith, dreadlocks represent a spiritual connection to God (Jah) and are inspired by the Nazarite vow found in the Bible (e.g., Judges 13:5 and 1 Corinthians 11:15).

The Nazarites, who were consecrated to God, did not cut their hair as a sign of holiness and separation from worldly temptations. Rastafarians adopt this tradition to signify their commitment to living a righteous life and their rejection of the corrupt, materialistic world symbolized by "Babylon."

Rather than being merely a defensive or rebellious act by prisoners, dreadlocks are a symbol of pride, strength, and a spiritual connection to God. The growing of dreadlocks in Rastafari is not about the circumstances of being in prison but about spiritual defiance and an identity rooted in African heritage. The prisoners in the UK that Gitwaza refers to may have popularized the style in a particular period, but they did not create its spiritual or cultural significance.

Gitwaza’s Statement on Rastafari as a Satanic Religion

Gitwaza also remarked, “Rastafari is a religion of Satan.” This statement reflects a significant misunderstanding of the Rastafari religion and its core beliefs. Gitwaza seems to view Rastafari as something entirely separate from Christianity, but in fact, Rastafari shares many religious and moral tenets with Christianity.

The primary belief of Rastafarians is that Haile Selassie I, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, is the earthly incarnation of God (Jah). This belief is grounded in biblical prophecy and represents the fulfillment of Marcus Garvey’s teachings and the expectation of a black king who would deliver the oppressed peoples of African descent.

Gitwaza’s view that Rastafarians worship Satan is completely misguided. Rastafarians believe in one God, Jah, and their worship focuses on justice, peace, and unity. They view Haile Selassie I as the fulfillment of the biblical prophecy of the return of a black king who would lead his people out of oppression, much in the same way Christians await the return of Jesus Christ.

While it is true that many Christians do not share this view of Haile Selassie as God, the claim that Rastafarians worship Satan reflects a serious misunderstanding of their faith. Rastafari is not a Satanic religion; it is a spiritual movement rooted in a desire for liberation, empowerment, and connection to the divine.

The Role of Cannabis in Rastafari

Gitwaza also briefly touched upon the use of cannabis (known as ganja) in the Rastafari movement, which he viewed as part of the "Satanic" practices associated with the faith. Rastafarians use cannabis as a sacrament to aid in meditation and to open the mind to a deeper connection with Jah. It is not used recreationally, but as a tool for spiritual growth and enhancing prayer.

While many may view cannabis use as a vice, for Rastafarians, it holds spiritual significance. In the Rastafari faith, cannabis is seen as a way to elevate consciousness and deepen one’s spiritual understanding of life and the divine.

Gitwaza’s condemnation of the use of cannabis as part of Rastafari faith reflects a misunderstanding of the spiritual practices involved. The use of cannabis in Rastafari is seen as a tool for enlightenment, not an evil or Satanic practice.

Misunderstandings and Truths in Gitwaza’s Remarks

While Apostle Gitwaza’s statements about Rastafari contain misunderstandings, there is an important opportunity here for dialogue and education. Gitwaza’s words, though they misinterpret the origins of dreadlocks and the essence of Rastafari, come from a place of concern and a desire to protect his own religious community. His criticism of the Rastafari movement as "Satanic" stems from a lack of understanding about the true beliefs of Rastafarians.

At the same time, Gitwaza does touch on some elements of Rastafari that are misunderstood by many, such as the historical roots of dreadlocks and the symbolism of the hairstyle.

These cultural markers, like Haile Selassie I as Jah and the spiritual significance of dreadlocks, are central to the Rastafari identity. Rastafari, as a movement rooted in spirituality, cultural pride, and historical liberation, continues to evolve and shape the lives of millions around the world.

Understanding these beliefs and practices is essential to overcoming the misconceptions and stereotypes that often arise from ignorance. Gitwaza’s words, while not entirely accurate, have sparked a necessary conversation about the complexity and depth of religious movements like Rastafari and how we can engage with them in a spirit of respect and understanding.

Apostle Dr. Paul Gitwaza!