What Does EarthStrong Mean? The Unique Jamaican Way of Saying Happy Birthday
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Ashley Haynes
- Posted on
Earthstrong: The Jamaican term for Birthday
“Bless Up Pon Yuh EarthStrong” or “Have a blessed Earthstrong” are common phrases that you will hear around Jamaicans when someone makes another successful journey around the sun.
‘Earthstrong’ is a Jamaican term used to refer to one’s birthday. It is a way to acknowledge the day a person was born and to acknowledge their strengthened connection with Earth each year.
This term originates from Rastafarian culture. The lingo of the religion spread rapidly with the rise of Reggae music in the 1960s. Since then, Rastafarian ideals and ways of speaking have been a crucial and central aspect of Jamaican culture. Rastafarian ideals have seeped into the mainstream culture of Jamaica, and have become a defining factor in Jamaican identity.
On this special day, people often gather with friends and family to reflect on the past year, to set intentions for the coming year, and to celebrate the milestones and achievements along the way. This celebration can include good food, music, dancing, and sharing of stories and memories.
Earthstrong is a time to honour the connection between an individual and the earth, and to acknowledge the spiritual journey that we are all on. It is a time to give thanks for the journey so far and to look forward to the adventures that lie ahead.
So if you are celebrating your Earthstrong, take a moment to reflect on your journey, to be grateful for the people and experiences that have shaped you, and to set your intentions for the year ahead. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy this special day!
