babilan

English Definition

The corrupt system of oppression — police, government, or unjust authority.

Patois Definition

Babilan system cyaan hold wi doun.

Literal Translation

Babylon (oppressive system)

Etymology

• Biblical/Rastafari · Babylon — imperial oppression

Cultural Context

Borrowed from Rastafari theology referencing biblical Babylon. Ubiquitous in roots reggae from Bob Marley to Burning Spear.

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