Eric Fonseca

Considering the upcoming movie about the life of Bob Marley, it is unlikely that the film will address his decision to renounce Rastafarianism and embrace Christianity.

Bob Marley's spiritual journey was a remarkable one, as he transitioned from his Rastafarian beliefs to embracing Christianity. Rastafarianism, a religious and cultural movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s, emphasized the divinity of Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, whom Rastafarians believed to be the Messiah. They also followed various spiritual and lifestyle practices, including the use of cannabis as a sacrament.

However, as Bob Marley's faith in Jesus Christ deepened, he made the decision to renounce Rastafarianism and fully surrender his life to Christ. This transformation was not taken lightly, as it meant letting go of a significant part of his identity and beliefs. Marley's conversion to Christianity was a personal and spiritual journey that led him to a new understanding of God's love and grace through Jesus Christ.

In the last days of his life, Bob Marley experienced another significant spiritual transformation. A few months before his death from cancer, he was baptized in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and took the name Berhane Selassie, which means "The Light of the Holy Trinity" in Amharic. This decision was not motivated by his terminal illness but rather by his genuine faith in Jesus Christ.

According to his Christian mother, Cedella, Bob Marley's final words were, "Jesus, take me." This statement reflects his deep devotion to Christ and his surrender to God's will. It is a powerful testament to his faith and the impact it had on his life.

The funeral service for Bob Marley was held at the Ethiopian Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity on Maxfield Avenue. His Eminence Abuna Yesehaq, the Church's Archbishop in the western hemisphere, presided over the service. Archbishop Yesehaq had baptized Marley in New York the previous November, shortly after his successful concerts at Madison Square Garden.

During the service, Archbishop Yesehaq addressed the misconception that Marley's conversion was solely motivated by his terminal cancer. He clarified that Marley had been preaching the Orthodox faith during his tours in Los Angeles, New York, and England. Many people in those cities were drawn to the church because of Bob's influence.

Marley's decision to be baptized in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church was a significant step in his spiritual journey. It was a public declaration of his faith and a testament to the profound impact Christianity had on his life. When he was baptized, he embraced his family, and they wept together for about half an hour, highlighting the deep love and unity that his faith brought to his loved ones.

It is worth noting that Bob Marley's wife, Rita Marley, also converted to Christianity and was baptized in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. She currently serves as a Deaconess in the Church and actively participates in establishing new Ethiopian Orthodox Churches in Africa.

The last days of Bob Marley's life were marked by his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. His renouncement of Rastafarianism and his baptism in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church reflect his deep spiritual connection and his desire to be in the presence of the Lord. His wife's conversion further exemplifies the profound influence of his faith on those closest to him. Bob Marley's legacy extends beyond his music, inspiring many through his spiritual journey.