Some Jamaicans are very religious and many of them have beliefs that have been passed down from one generation to the next. Because of the ethnic diversity in the country, there are several religions practiced throughout the island nation. The Taino group used to believe in animism. This means that the ancient people used to pray to the forces of nature and also revered animals and plants. They believed in the god Yucahu and his mother, goddess Atabey. These two were their main deities. Yucahu was known as the god of the ocean and root crops. Atabay was known as the goddess of fertility and fresh water.
The ancient Tainos also believed in spirits, called zemis. Zemis may be good or evil and appear in various forms. The people worshiped the spirits to ensure that their harvest is plenty and to prevent natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. As the western colonizers arrived in Jamaica, Christianity was also introduced in the country. At present, 80 percent of the locals are Christians. Sunday mass is now very essential for many people and Jamaicans dress well to attend every week. The Anglican Church of Jamaica is the biggest denomination, based on Roman Catholic principles. There are also a few Protestant churches in other areas. African religion features mystic beliefs, fundamentalism and Christianity. There are also Rastafarians, who sport matted hair and use marijuana for spiritual purposes. Rastas are still very active today as they were many years ago, spreading their culture and music to the world.