Babylon
/ BAB-i-lon /Quick answer: Babylon (pronounced BAB-i-lon) is the oppressive system — and the police.
What does Babylon mean?
In Rastafari and Jamaican speech, Babylon means the corrupt, oppressive system — government, colonial power and materialism. In street slang it also means the police.
Where does Babylon come from?
It comes from the Bible, where Babylon is the place of exile and oppression. Rastafari identified the Western system with Babylon and Africa (Zion) with freedom; reggae songs like Bob Marley’s Babylon System spread the idea.
How to use Babylon
‘Babylon a come!’ — the police are coming! Opposite: Zion.
| Jamaican Patois | English |
|---|---|
| Babylon a come! | The police are coming! |
| Wi a fight di Babylon system. | We’re fighting the oppressive system. |
| Chant down Babylon! | Bring down oppression! |
Other spellings
Because Patois is mostly spoken, spellings vary. You may also see: Babylon system, Babylon bwoy.
Related Patois words
Zion · Babylon bwoy · Downpression · Jakes
Frequently asked
What does Babylon mean in Jamaica?
The oppressive system, and in slang, the police.
Where does the term come from?
The Bible, through Rastafari.
Look up more words in the Jamaican Patois Dictionary, or see Babylon in the dictionary.