Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks have ancient origins, dating back to cultures like ancient Egypt (around 3600 BCE). Egyptian priests and ascetics wore them as a symbol of divine commitment and rejection of worldly vanity. In Greece, philosophers and spiritual seekers also embraced matted and tangled hair as a sign of austere living. In the Caribbean, particularly Jamaica, Rastafarians have elevated dreadlocks to a sacred status. They call them the “holy crown of hair”.
Rastafarians
For Rastafarians, growing and maintaining dreadlocks signifies love for natural life and connection to Jah (God). The Lion of Judah, symbolized by dreadlocks, represents inner power, purity, and adherence to Rastafari ideals of equality and togetherness.
Defiance and Heritage
Dreadlocks are a powerful statement of defiance against colonial conventions. They also serve as a link to African heritage, celebrating cultural identity. Jamaicans, in particular, wear dreadlocks as a spiritual symbol, respecting their roots and ancestors, and rejecting centuries of European colonialism and slavery
Sacred
Spiritual journey
Wearing dreadlocks is often seen as a spiritual journey that teaches patience. The process of allowing hair to naturally mat and form locs requires time and dedication. For yogis, this patience reflects their commitment to their spiritual practices and inner growth.
In Indian culture, locks of hair have been widely regarded as sacred by Hindu holy men. These locks signify their willingness to disregard vanity for their devotion to God. The Hindu deity Shiva is also described in scriptures as wearing dreadlocks, referred to as “jatta.” Thus, for yogis, dreadlocks connect them to their spiritual heritage.