Babylon

The Hebrew name 'Babel' (i.e. Babylon, see Genesis 11:9) means 'confusion'. This loathed city was once the flourishing capital of Babylonia, and was at its peak during the 6th century BC, under King Nebuchadnezzar. It contained the Hanging Gardens, one of the ancient wonders of the world.

But the numerous prophecies that foretold Babylon's complete destruction (Isaiah 13, 14:1-23, 21:1-10, 47, and Jeremiah 50 and 51) have all been fulfilled. The Babylon spoken of and frequently personified as a whore in the book of Revelation is actually Rome.

Following the fall of Jerusalem, the Israelites were taken into exile in Babylon, where they were oppressed and scorned. Likewise, during the slave-trade, countless Africans were stolen from their homeland and taken to the Americas. Thus, in Rastafari, the name 'Babylon' has been applied especially to America, and indeed to any oppressive, racist society.


For examples of songs, see 'Mystery Babylon' by Peter Tosh, 'Rastaman Chant' as arranged and sung by the Wailers, 'Rivers Of Babylon' by The Melodians, 'Babylon' by Messian Dread, and 'Blood Of The Prophets' by Max Romeo.


Check out also the following article about the Fall of Babylon:
The Writing on the Wall, written by Esther Mitchell

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