Iron Lion Zion

The song's lyrics are directly related to Rastafarian beliefs. Zion is "the promised land", in the song referring to Ethiopia. The lion refers to the Lion of Judah, which appeared on the old royal Ethiopian flag, and represents Haile Selassie I, the former Ethiopian emperor whom Rastafarians regard as their Messiah.

Both muffinhead and Goldrocker are right. I think it's a reference to rasta beliefs (Zion is Ethiopia, the 'promised land', while the Lion is the Lion of Judah, Haile Selassie I), but it's also a reference to his assasination attempt, he had to "run like a fugitive" by exiling from Jamaica, to save his life as a rebel of Jamaica's political system.

I think the "I'm gonna be Iron like a Lion in Zion" also kinda means "I'm going to be brave and worthy", like Haile Selassie was. Marley is encouraging himself to be brave and keep forward. I think.

It means : Im gonna as Strong (Iron) as God (Lion) in Heaven (Zion). Think about it, the Rastafarian belief has its CONVICTIONS and a Rasta cannot be deterred from a goal he or she may have. They simply will not give in or give up. Bob was sayin my faith is SO STRONG, im gonna be as Strong as Jah on Mt Zion. Seen?

Uncle Nesta

So inspiring. this song always makes me feel strong. he's saying that no matter what is going on in this crazy world, you have to stay strong and face your fears and soon we will reach Zion. Its only a matter of time. Love ya Bob :)

I like this song because of the mixture of blues, rock, and reggae. The mixing in of the sax is pretty phat too.

I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO CLUE WHAT THIS MEANS. Maybe before he checks his stocks he likes to go under rocks. Then, afterwards, he runs like a fugutive to save the life he lives.

hi again

nesta had a ring on his finger that was given to him by the grandson of his majesty haile selassie 1.it was a black ring with a with a gold lion embedded in it's centre.because nesta was a rasta this was a important thing in his life.he also spoke of the the ring burning his finger like fire.no member of his family got that ring and it still remains buried with him in his final resting place in nine miles in the mountains of jamacia.

Honestly people, it's simple... The song’s referring to the assassination attempt on Bob's life and his following escape from Jamaica to the US.

Yes, lik in Exodus. And the Rock was the place where he used to sit and smoke in Jamaica.