The Elders Circle is a sacred container within the Reasoning Circle, where living custodians of Rastafarian tradition and Ethiopian Orthodox heritage share their lived wisdom. These are not lectures — they are intimate conversations, often accompanied by nyabinghi drumming, prayer, and the sharing of ganja (as a sacrament).
Our elders have walked the walk: some were present at Haile Selassie I’s historic visit to Jamaica in 1966. Others are scholars of the Kebra Nagast (the Glory of Kings) and the Ethiopian Bible. All carry the oral traditions passed down from their own mentors. They offer guidance on everything from interpreting biblical prophecy to navigating modern struggles while keeping faith and livity.
Come sit at their feet. Ask your deepest questions. Listen to stories that have never been written down — only spoken from heart to heart.
Elder Bongo Shem
A founding member of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, Bongo Shem made the journey from Jamaica to Ethiopia in the 1970s. He shares firsthand accounts of Haile Selassie’s 1966 visit and the early days of the repatriation movement.
Dr. Akilah Tesfaye
Holding a doctorate in Ethiopian studies from Addis Ababa University, Dr. Akilah brings deep knowledge of the Solomonic dynasty, the Kebra Nagast, and the theological roots of Rastafari’s reverence for H.I.M.
Empress Imani
One of the most respected female voices in the Rastafarian community, Empress Imani has dedicated her life to preserving the role of women in the faith and advocating for gender balance within the reasoning tradition.
Ras Mweusi
Born in Trinidad, Ras Mweusi has lived in Ethiopia for 25 years, operating a healing centre in Shashamane. He teaches about ancestral plants, the Ital diet, and the practical path to repatriation.
👑 Elders Circle Sessions – July 25, 2026
Elder Bongo Shem
Dr. Akilah Tesfaye
Empress Imani
Ras Mweusi
Elder Bongo Shem & Dr. Akilah
All Elders Panel
Binghi Fire + Elders
Words from Elder Bongo Shem
“When Selassie came to Jamaica in 1966, the rain stopped the moment he stepped off the plane. Thousands of us saw it. The elders told us then: ‘This is the King of Kings, the Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah.’ Some laughed. But we knew. And now, sixty years later, his words are still alive — because we keep reasoning.”
— Bongo Shem, Kingston 1966
Biblical & Kebra Nagast Interpretation
Understanding the Ethiopian Orthodox canon, the significance of Psalm 68:31 (“Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God”), and the lineage of Solomon and Sheba.
Living History
Firsthand accounts of the 1960s, the rise of reggae, the repatriation to Shashamane, and the evolution of Rastafari from a persecuted movement to a global faith.
Practical Livity
How to maintain an Ital diet, grow your own food, build community, and stay grounded in a digital, fast‑paced world.
“A leader does not deserve the name unless he is willing to serve his people. And if he does not serve, he is not worthy of leadership.”
— His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I