Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈɑː] (IPA) 
The word "Jah" is often used in Rastafarian and reggae culture as a shortened form of "Jehovah", the Hebrew name of God. It is pronounced with a long "a" sound, like "ya", and a soft "j" sound at the beginning, represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /jɑː/. It is important to note that the spelling of "Jah" may vary depending on the language and dialect used, but the pronunciation remains consistent.
Jah is a term and name used primarily within Rastafarian and reggae culture, often referring to the spiritual essence of God. It is a shortened form of the Hebrew name for God, Yahweh or Jehovah, and is regarded as a sacred name of God within the Rastafarian movement.
In Rastafarianism, Jah represents the divine power and presence that resides within every individual and all of nature. It is believed to be an omnipotent and benevolent force that guides and protects believers. Rastafarians often use the term "Jah" as a form of praise and acknowledgment towards God.
Moreover, the term "Jah" is frequently used in reggae music, both as a name for God and as a spiritual symbol. Artists and listeners alike often use it to express devotion, faith, and reverence towards the higher power. It can be found in various reggae songs and is sometimes even used as part of an artist's stage name.
It is important to note that the use of the term "Jah" extends beyond religious contexts and is often embraced by individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds who appreciate and celebrate reggae music and Rastafarianism.
In summary, "Jah" is a sacred and highly regarded term that originated within Rastafarian culture. It represents the divine essence of God and is often used as a form of praise, homage, and spiritual connection to the higher power within the context of Rastafarianism and reggae music.
A contr. for Jehovah.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Jah" is derived from the Hebrew name for God, which is written as "Yah" or "Yahweh" in English. In the Hebrew Bible, the name of God is represented by the consonants YHWH, known as the Tetragrammaton. Due to religious reverence, the exact pronunciation of this name has been lost, and scholars often use the term "Yah" as an approximation.
"Jah" is believed to be a variation of "Yah" that developed in the Rastafari movement, a religious and social movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s. Rastafarians consider Haile Selassie I, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, as the messiah descended from the lineage of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
