Nyahbinghi Order

The Nyahbinghi Order

• Nyahbinghi is the oldest of all the Rastafarian subgroups.
• Nyahbinghi attempts to keep the link between Rastafarian faith and African heritage close.
• The group is named after Queen Nyahbinghi who ruled Uganda in the 19th Century and helped reduce the influence of colonial powers.
• The name Nyahbinghi is believed to mean 'Death to all Oppressors'.
• The focus of this group is on the veneration of Haile Selassie, who is regarded by them as the embodiment of God.
• Ethiopia is very important to the sect, which emphasises the repatriation of blacks to Africa.
• The Nyahbinghi regard water, air and fire as representations of the elements of life. Fire is believed to represent the wrath of Jah pouring down on Babylon.
• Nyahbinghi eat organic produce only, such as vegetables, fruits, herbs and barks, and avoid the consumption of salt.
• Nyahbinghi take part in regular Groundations, often called Nyahbinghi Groundations. The word 'groundation' means affirmation of life through earth.
• The importance of Ethiopia to Nyahbinghi:
  • The flag tends to have the colour green first. The Nyahbinghi flag also features a lion in the centre, reflecting the Lion of Judah - Haile Selassie I.
  • Nyahbinghi observe the Ethiopian Sabbath, Tuesday.
  • Nyahbinghi try to use the Ethiopian language, Amharic.

Find out more

• Nyabingi drumming