If there’s one thing Rastafarians aren’t signing up for, it’s Babylon’s military. And in Jamaica, that means the JDF — Jamaica Defence Force. To many Rastas, the JDF is just the polished boot of Babylon, kicking down the doors of spiritual freedom, African identity, and, yes, ganja.

Rastafarianism emerged in the 1930s as a bold rejection of colonialism, white supremacy, and state oppression — which they neatly bundled under the biblical term “Babylon.” So when you show up in camo fatigues, with ranks, rifles, and a government paycheck, you might as well be wearing a sign that says, “Official Agent of Babylon.”

Historically, the JDF and Jamaican police haven’t exactly played nice with the Rastafarian community. From the 1963 Coral Gardens Massacre, where dozens of Rastas were brutalized by state forces, to routine harassment for dreadlocks or sacramental ganja use, the JDF has symbolized repression, not protection.

So, no, Rastas don’t salute the troops — they side-eye them. They view the military as enforcers of foreign-backed systems that uphold inequality, protect corrupt politicians, and ignore the poor — especially poor Black Jamaicans. For Rastas, true power comes from Jah, not from a government-issued rifle.

And the idea of a Rasta enlisting in the JDF? That’s like asking a vegan to run a BBQ pit. Thanks, but no thanks.

In the battle of Babylon vs. Zion, dreadlocks don’t enlist — they resist.