Rosaries and their meaning. rosary made of natural stone. Buddhist beads. The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni

Buddhist rosary - a necklace with grains strung on it, used to count prayers. The most common Buddhist rosary has 108 grains (the sacredness of this number has its origins in ancient Indian magical practice). Quite often there are rosaries with 54 and 27 grains (1/2 and 1/4 of 108, i.e. a shortened version). A rosary with 18 grains in honor of 18 arhats - disciples of the Buddha, 21 grains - in honor of 21 forms of the goddess Tara, 32 grains - to count 32 virtues or signs of the Buddha. Rosaries with 108 grains have separators located on the thread after 18, 21, 27 and 54 grains - this is usually a larger bead than the rest.

A rosary with a red thread and a tassel is intended for the practice of tantra.

The rosary has special names and contains a hidden esoteric meaning, which is revealed only to those initiated into the Teaching. Rosaries can be made from precious stones - lapis lazuli, coral, opal; wood - red, black, yellow sandalwood and fruit pits;

The rosary is used by followers of almost all religious systems to count the number of prayers and mantras read, rituals and bows performed. However, in Buddhism, the rosary also plays the role of an object in which information related to the main philosophical and practical aspects of the Buddha's Teachings is codified.

Buddhist rosaries (Sanskrit: mala; Tibetan: prenba) are made from wood, bone, stone, or metal. In this case, the material is often chosen in connection with one or another of its energetic or mystical influences on a person or the environment.

So, for example, juniper rosaries have the ability to scare away evil spirits and eliminate harmful influences; the same properties have a rosary of red coral and dark blue lapis lazuli.

Prayer beads made of sandalwood, rock crystal and pearls serve to soothe, eliminate obstacles and diseases.

Gold, silver, copper, amber, made from the seeds of a lotus or a bodhi tree - increase life expectancy, contribute to the development of wisdom and increase spiritual merit.

A rosary made of crystal, sandalwood, lotus seeds or bodhi seeds is also recommended for the practice of puja offerings to all blissful (peaceful) yidams (aspects of Enlightenment) and Guru yoga.

For mystical practices, especially those associated with angry yidams, a rosary made of juniper, ebony or mahogany, bone, black crystal, agate, black coral is used.

Warrior monks often wear iron rosaries, using them, if necessary, as an improvised weapon.

There are also rosaries made of knots tied in a special way. At the same time, each knot is tied with the reading of certain mantras, prayers and the performance of special contemplations.

Particularly valued by the followers of the Buddhist tradition of the Vajrayana ("Diamond" or the Secret Chariot) are the rosaries made from the bone of the frontal part of the human skull. 108 skulls are used to make such a rosary, which is possible only in the conditions of Tibet, where traditionally the corpses of the dead are not buried in the ground (due to the lack of such in the mountains) and are not burned (due to the lack of wood), but left in special places where the corpses are quickly pecked out by mountain vultures, after which only the skull and bones remain from the corpse. Since such rosaries are very rare, more often there are simply bone rosaries (made of human or animal bones), each bead of which is made in the shape of a miniature skull.

The classical number of beads in a Buddhist rosary is 108. However, there are rosaries with a different number of beads. In any case, the number of beads codifies certain provisions of the Teaching. So, for example, 108 beads of a classic rosary symbolizes 108 kinds of desires (Sanskrit: tanha) that darken the human spirit:

a) desires associated with the six senses: sight, touch, smell, taste, hearing and mind (6);
b) in relation to objects of the past, present and future (3);
c) to internal objects and external objects (2);
d) three ways of manifestation: in thoughts, in words and in deeds (3).

Hence the canonical numbers of Buddhism:

6x3 = 18;
- 18x2 = 36;
- 36x3 = 108.

There are other decodings of the number 108, however, this one is the most common. The rosary is divided by an additional larger bead (109th), which is crowned with a cone-shaped or cylindrical bead. The big bead symbolizes Wisdom-prajna, and the cone - Method-upaya. Most often, the 36th and 72nd beads are also made several bigger size or other form. A "tail" of threads comes out of the cylindrical bead, the color of which is often associated with vows taken in the tradition of a particular Buddhist School. So, for example, black can mean taking worldly vows (Sanskrit: upasaka, tab.: genen), red - initial monastic vows, obedience (Sanskrit: shramanera-, Tib.: getsul), yellow - full vows of monasticism ( Sanskrit: bhikshu, Tib.: gelong). "Tail" can be double - in this case, one of its parts symbolizes the Practice of Merit, and the second - the Practice of Wisdom; or they can symbolize, respectively, the state of Clarity - shamatha and Insight - vipashyana. The fact that both parts come out of one bead symbolizes their unity-non-duality.

The rosary used by Vajrayana adepts is often much more complex both in symbolism and in the manufacturing process. Often such rosaries also play the role of a kind of identification mark for the initiates, indicating the level and type of spiritual practice of the owner of the rosary.

In addition to the general symbolism of the classic rosary, the Vajrayana rosary, especially among those initiated into the practice of angry yidams, is often performed in the form of skulls, which symbolizes the frailty of this world or the Practice of frailty. In the form of skulls, there can be both all beads, and only dividing ones - the 36th, 72nd and 109th. It can be made in the form of a triple skull and only one large, 109th, bead. In these cases, three skulls also denote three main obscurations - "poisons" of consciousness: passion, anger and ignorance.

The base of the rosary (in the region of the "tail" or instead of it) is often decorated with one of the tantric symbols made of iron, bronze, silver or gold. From this symbol, one can roughly determine the type of tantras that the owner of the rosary practices. The vajra is most often found as such a symbol, as common symbol Vajrayana or dharmachakra - as a symbol of the Buddha's Teachings in general. Gridug is more often worn by lamas (as a symbol of cutting off any defilement) and initiated into the practices of angry yidams; metal mirror - practices of the Dzogchen system; phurbu - initiated into the practices of yidam Vajrakilaya, etc.

Vajrayana rosaries are strung on a cord woven from 5 multi-colored threads: white, blue, yellow, red and green. These threads symbolize the five aspects of Enlightenment, expressed by the figures of the five Enlightened Tathagatas: Vairocana, Akshobhya, Ratnasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddha. During the weaving of the cord, biji syllables are read and a special visualization of these Tathagatas is made. Thus, the cord is, as it were, charged with their energy. Five threads can also be associated with the practice-mandala of a particular yidam - in this case, the mantras and visualizations change accordingly. Sometimes the cord consists of 9 threads - in this case they symbolize the yidam Vajradhara and the eight main bodhisattvas.

In addition to the central "tail", the Vajrayan rosary has two more - after the 36th and 72nd beads (in this case, these beads do not differ from the others in either shape or size). Each of these "tails" is threaded through five small beads or disks. The two "tails" symbolize the Practice of Merit and the Practice of Wisdom, and the small beads represent the ten Perfections-paramitas, the first five of which are related to Merit, and the next five to Wisdom. Often there is another option, when all ten small beads are strung on the main "tail".

After the rosary is made, it is consecrated by the Lama Teacher or by the adept himself through a special ceremony. Such beads acquire special magical and energetic properties that protect their owner and contribute to his tantric practices. These rosaries must not be given to strangers, treated carelessly or disrespectfully. If the rosary becomes unusable (beads or cord are erased), then they are re-consecrated during repair or they are burned with the reading of mantras. Often pilgrims leave their rosary on which they have recited 108,000 or more mantras at holy places. It is believed that in this case the fruits of the performed practices increase, which is quite understandable, given the connection that is established between the rosary and its owner as a result of systematic practices.

The rosaries of the great Lama Teachers, famous for their holiness and spiritual powers, are walled up in stupas or foundations of temples during their construction, put into statues of the Buddha and yidams, placed on altars as relics. Often the rosary is passed from teacher to student from generation to generation as a sign of spiritual continuity.

A rosary (Skt. - small) is a cord or ribbon, most often closed in a ring, on which knots are tied, beads (grains), plates or other homogeneous elements are strung. In many religions: Hinduism, Islam, Christianity and Buddhism, they are used to count read prayers or other ritual actions, maintain attention and concentration, set rhythm, and so on.

FUNCTIONS OF THE ROSARY:
1. Counting device:
According to the grains, knots, rollers or other components of the rosary, the count of the read prayers, mantras, performed prostrations and similar ritual actions is made. When dividing grains or other counting elements of the rosary into groups (especially unequal ones, as, for example, on a ladder), it becomes easier to count a large set of numbers. The use of pendant counters makes possible score large numbers, the number of fully counted rosaries is set aside on the counter. That is, the counter is the next register when transmitting numbers in the number system with a base equal to the number of grains in the rosary ring.

2. Reminder:
The rosary itself is a reminder of prayer, connected in a ring - of continuous prayer. The device of the rosary is sometimes coordinated with a prayer or other ritual rule, that is, the number of grains dictates the sequence of words and (or) actions.
Prayer beads used for unceasing prayer without counting.

3. Setting the rhythm:
Prayer rules, meditative practices and other ritual actions performed with the use of a rosary require compliance with a certain rhythm, which is set and maintained by turning over the rosary.

4. Maintain concentration:
Turning the rosary allows the practitioner to maintain attention, fight loss of concentration and sleep. So, for example, the incessant repetition of the Jesus Prayer without counting, practiced in hesychasm, implies the need to maintain attention, in particular, the clarity of the text of the prayer, which is facilitated by the rhythmic sorting of the rosary. Each grain "returns" the believer's attention to prayer.

5. Symbolism:
The design and shape of the rosary, the number of elements, material, color, method of wearing and using are endowed with different symbolic meanings in various teachings. Most often, the rosary is associated with cyclicity and infinity, with connection and continuity, with a wreath (crown), a staircase to heaven.

6. Distinguishing mark:
By the appearance of the rosary, one can draw conclusions about the belonging of their owner to one or another branch of the teaching, the degree of his preparation.

7. Treatment:
In some practices, a rosary from various materials endowed with the ability to cure certain ailments. In addition, fine motor skills of the fingers touching the rosary can help in the treatment of joint diseases.

WHY DO YOU NEED A BUDDHIST ROSARY?
Most often, the rosary is used for the spiritual practice of reciting, chanting or mentally repeating mantras and the names of the Deity. In a practical sense, the rosary helps to count, sets the rhythm of breathing and reading, and serves as an anchor for the mind: after each repetition, one bead is moved, etc. In fact, the rosary is one of the most sacred religious objects, since they are inseparable from the highest practice of turning to God and meditation. “Readed” rosaries accumulate very powerful energy in themselves, protecting the owner, sometimes rosaries are inherited or given to loved ones for protection.

WHY 108?
The number of grains in a traditional Buddhist rosary is 108. This number is sacred among Buddhists, as it was established by the Buddha himself. There are also rosaries containing both more and fewer grains from the key number 108. This is due, first of all, to the appointment of specific rosaries for specific purposes of use.
For example, a 21-grain rosary is dedicated to the cult of the goddess Tara (the female equivalent of an Arhat in Buddhism). In general, the number of grains in a Buddhist rosary speaks of belonging to one or another Buddhist school (Hinayana, Mahayana, Tantra), as well as belonging to a specific direction, trend, and even sect in the bosom of Buddhism. For example, sacred Buddhist books (Pustaka), the number of days of fasting, revered saints, etc. So there are rosaries in 159, 143, 98, 50, 41, 33, 27 and 21 grains. And in Tantric Buddhism there is even a rosary with 19 grains, moreover, the grains are in the form of human skulls.
So, the Buddhist rosary clearly reflects the multidimensionality and diversity of the world in which we all live. The number of grains in a rosary and tassels always has its own special meaning at the Buddhists. The canonical Buddhist rosary, consisting of 108 grains, is made up of the number 9, taken 12 times.
Nine in Buddhism is a number especially revered by the esotericists of this teaching.
Any Buddhist monk (lama) can only have 9 items with him, setting off on a journey, and the number 12 symbolizes the seven (seven stars Ursa Major, seven days of the week, seven notes, seven colors) and five (5 primary elements of nature). And these canons taken as a basis have a philosophical justification. Nine denotes 9 months (the period from conception to the birth of a person) and this number "nine" is repeated 12 times according to the number of 12 cyclic signs (in the west "Zodiac", in the East - "Branches") that make up a full annual revolution of the Sun. So the number 108 is the sum of twelve nine months equal to 9 solar years and, constituting a full circle of conceptions and births, then repeated (from some particular point of departure) constantly from year to year in the same order.
In Buddhism, the number 108 also marks the number of sacred Buddhist texts of Tibet "Kanjur" and 108 primary elements located in 6 Buddhist worlds.
Also, the number 108 symbolizes 108 spiritual laws.

WHICH ROSARY TO CHOOSE?

It is better if several points coincide at the same time when choosing:

1. In accordance with the tradition of the school:
Shaivism is Rudraksha.
Vaishnavism - tulasi, nim.
Shaktism - crystal, metal, rudraksha.
Tantrism - bone, rudraksha.
Buddizim - juniper, sandalwood (white and red), other trees especially with a strong smell, seeds of the Bodhi tree, lotus seeds, semi-precious and precious stones.
Tibetan Buddhism - yak bone, precious and semi-precious stones.

2. At the direction of your spiritual master.

3. According to the nature of the practice and the chosen mantra. This is probably the main guide. The material from which the rosary is made should best perceive the corresponding vibrations, with its natural energy not interfere with your practice and be pleasing to the Divine.

4. According to your own deep intuitive sensations: You like these particular beads, you feel that they are yours, pleasant sensations from contact with them.

BONE, WOOD OR STONE?
Buddhist beads are made from red, black, mulberry, rosewood, semi-precious stones, coral, pearls, amber, rock (Tibetan) crystal, small shells, seeds, bones and other materials. In this case, the material is often chosen in connection with one or another of its energetic or mystical influences on a person or the environment.

Rosary made of sandalwood (white).
Sandalwood is traditionally considered one of the purest substances and is widely valued for its cooling and healing properties. Practicing on a sandalwood rosary promotes peace. Sandalwood is calming and cools the mind, it calms pitta dosha and helps the practitioner overcome sensual temptations. It also attracts positive subtle vibrations, brings clarity of perception and can be used in the practice of worshiping any Deity.

Red sandalwood beads.
Red sandalwood helps to concentrate energy and direct it to the desired goal. It has warming properties, protects against negative energies, transforming them into the power of creation. Develops correct work muladhara (1st chakra), interacts with the dense streams of the earth. Red sandal is recommended for active people. Red sandalwood beads are used in the worship of Ganesha as the remover of obstacles and Durga as the embodiment of the feminine power of creation and destruction. Red sandalwood beads are also used in tantric practices.

Juniper beads.
Juniper beads scare away evil spirits and purify space, juniper well accumulates positive energy. These are traditional Buddhist beads. Juniper wood does not rot, which is important for long-term practice.

Oak beads.
Oak clears the space around it and attracts positive energies. An oak rosary gives the wearer personal protection from negative vibrations.

Rosary from lotus seeds.
A rosary made from dried lotus seeds is used in Hinduism to worship the Goddess Lakshmi and gain material well-being, comfortable life and prosperity.
In Buddhism, lotus seed beads are used for the practice of the Deities of the lotus family, to which Buddha Amitabha, Avalokiteshvara, Hayagriva, Guru Padmasambhava, Tara and others belong.

Rudraksha beads.
Rudraksha beads generate powerful energy, greatly increase concentration and protect. It is no coincidence that they are used not only by the followers of Shiva and Shakti, but also by Tantrics. Rudraksha beads give tremendous power and are able to subdue the will of other beings, so they can only be used with boundless love and compassion for living beings.
Rudraksha is the dried fruit of a tree called Elaeocarpus ganitrus in Latin. The word itself is translated from Sanskrit as "Rudra's eye" or "Rudra's tear". The legend tells that once Shiva, who burned three cities in the war with the Asuras, shed tears at the thought of the lives he had ruined. His tears fell to the ground and turned into a tree bearing Rudraksha fruits. Rudraksha itself has a strong energy; It has been scientifically proven that these fruits have electromagnetic properties, so Rudraksha beads should be used very consciously and with caution.

Tulsi beads.
Tulsi, or "holy basil", strengthens devotional service and the intensity of spiritual service. Most often used in the practice of Bhakti Yoga.

Rosary from it.
Most often used in Vaishnava practices. It is believed that the neem tree has exceptional healing properties.

A rosary made from the seeds of the bodhi tree.
The bodhi seed became a symbol of the Buddha's attainment of enlightenment while meditating under the bodhi tree. It is believed that the benefit from reciting on a rosary of bodhi seeds increases indefinitely. Therefore, bodhi beads are especially sacred for followers of Buddhism, but are suitable for any mantras and practices.

Rosary made of bone.
The more we meditate on death and accept it, the more fruitful our life becomes. Through this comparison, we look at life differently and begin to understand the true values - service to others, love, the joy of every moment.

Rosary made of rock crystal (quartz).
Rock crystal cleanses the body and mind, balances energy and returns a person to his true essence. Crystal beads are a wonderful tool in meditation and healing practices.
The rock crystal itself is the personification of Shakti, the power of the Great Goddess and the manifestation of her primordial energy. Therefore, most often, rosaries made of rock crystal are used in the practices of worshiping Mahadevi or tantric practices of worshiping female merciful deities.

Pearl beads.
Cooling beads with feminine energy(pearl - the stone of the moon), help to find peace, tranquility and get rid of doubts, awaken creative forces. Pearls are believed to harmonize all 7 chakras and form a gentle healing energy during meditation. Ideal for Saraswati sadhana.

Agate beads.
Agate increases the susceptibility of a person and gently harmonizes the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual states. This semi-precious stone is known for its noble character, it helps to realize good intentions, reveals the truth, and heals. Agate was used to make talismans and amulets from the evil eye. The property was attributed to the stone to quench thirst, patronize the owner, give him strength and eloquence. Agate will help connect loving hearts. Layered agate gives a man charm in women's eyes.
Depending on the color of the stone, the properties of the agate rosary differ.
Black agate: for protection and success in rivalry.
White agate: for self-realization, spiritual improvement, dedication to service.
Red agate: has strong healing properties.
Green Agate: Soothes, calms the mind and helps to get rid of negative thoughts.
Blue agate: prolongs life, reveals nobility in the practitioner.

Jade beads.
Sacred stone in Eastern culture. Jade beads pacify, calm the mind, neutralize negative thoughts. Jade awakens such
qualities like love, courage, justice and wisdom.

Buddhist beads. " golden abode Buddha Shakyamuni"

A rosary with a red thread and a tassel is intended for the practice of Tantra.

white rosary were dedicated to the deity of mercy and compassion Avalokiteshvara, the red ones - to the idam Hayagriva, Padmasambhava, the yellow ones - to Guru Tsongkhava.

pommel(the beginning of the rosary) consists of grains of three sizes (large, medium, small), which symbolize the Body, Speech and Mind of the Buddha. When counting the mantra, you cannot step over them, you need to start counting in the opposite direction.

Beads must be stored in a clean place. Tantric beads are kept away from the eyes, used only in the practice of the yidam deity.

Dzogchen Khenpo Choga Rinpoche, a follower of the Dzogchen tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, was born in Eastern Tibet in 1966 and studied at Dzogchen Shri Singh University, one of the most famous monastic educational institutions in Tibet. He currently resides in Nepal at the Kanying Shedrab Ling Monastery, travels extensively, and is known for his lively and direct manner of transmitting Buddhist teachings.

According to the materials of the journal "The Way to Yourself". Conversation with Lama Khenpo Choga Rinpoche. Led by correspondent Lidia Bogdanova.

Rosary from good hands

Lydia Bogdanova: Kenpola, as you know, in the tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, various ritual accessories are actively used. What is their purpose?

Lama Kenpo: I can ask a response question: why, from your point of view, does a person need clothes? Or, for that matter, the body itself? Man cannot imagine himself without a physical body. We have eyes, which means we must see; we have ears, which means we must hear. We have been given hands, which means that there will be something that we will touch and feel the touch of. That's how everything is arranged. From this we can conclude: since we need a teaching, we need such things related to the teaching. It's like pen and paper. Both are needed. If there is no paper, we will write with a pen in the air (laughs). Ritual accessories play a similar role in the Buddhist tradition. It is difficult for me to answer our question in a different way. Think about what I said for yourself. Simply put, ritual accessories are associated with the tasks and goals of Buddhism, its symbols, and are used to perform various spiritual practices.

L.B.: Is it necessary to consider ritual accessories as a shrine? How should they be handled?

Lama Kenpo: What is the place of spiritual practice in your life? Imagine that a photograph of your beloved child is lying on the floor and being trampled under foot, how will you feel?

L.B.: I will be very uncomfortable.

Lama Kenpo: Here you have answered your own question. If there's something for you great importance, then the ratio will be corresponding. For example, you will probably keep a photo of your child in a proper place, and a newspaper clipping with a photo of a stranger can be thrown away. By and large, there are no special laws or regulations where to store this or that item. This kind of decision can only depend on you. If you have faith in the teaching, if you are sincerely devoted to it, then you will definitely strive to ensure that the images of lamas and deities, sacred texts and rosaries are kept in a “clean” place (for example, on an altar or in the place that you yourself considered “clean”), as well as to ensure that they are not stepped on or hurt.

The specific nature of the rosary depends on the goals and characteristics of the practice being performed.. There is a division of the rosary by color. For example, white rosary(sandalwood, crystal) are used in the practices of peaceful deities, as well as for purification, getting rid of diseases and removing obstacles.
Used to accumulate merit yellow rosary(for example, amber) as well as for performing the practice of Dtsambala (deities that help increase wealth).
During initiations apply red rosary(coral, sandalwood). They are considered "secret", and their meaning is usually not fully revealed to the uninitiated.
Green rosary(for example, from jadeite) are intended to invoke the Defenders of the dharma, as well as to perform the practices of angry deities.
In the practices of angry deities are also used black rosary(sandalwood, coral) and with thorns (from rudraksha).
As for the materials themselves, they are again determined by the tasks of a particular practice. For example, crystal and gold beads very favorable for the practice of offerings, but only if a person is not attached to things. Prayer beads from the seeds of the bodhi tree are used to take bodhisattva vows, develop bodhichitta, compassion in oneself. coral rosary- when performing practices of increasing activity (practices of such deities as Kurukulla and Chenrezik). Many people like rosary made of bone yak. I think that this is only because people consider bone a valuable material.

L.B.: What can you say about the number of bones on the rosary? Should there be a certain number of them?

Lama Kenpo: Traditionally, there should be 100 stones, because many mantras (for example, mantras for removing obstacles) are recited a hundred times. But since we can make mistakes by capturing two bones instead of one, we added 8 more (laughs). In fact, the number 108 is associated with astrology, a tradition that came to Tibet from China. In general, the number 8 is of great importance in the tradition of Tibetan Buddhism (the Eightfold Path, eight bodhisattvas, eight good emblems). There are rosaries of other sizes, for example, for reading the Avalokiteshvara mantra (OM MANI PADME HUM) it is good to have a rosary of 6 bones, for performing the practice of the goddess Singhamukhi - of 14 bones. As for the small beads used when performing prostrations, here the number of bones can be any, as long as it is convenient for you.

L.B: How should a rosary be worn?

Lama Kenpo: There are no special rules here. Usually practitioners wear them under clothing. But if your rosary is richly decorated and you want to show it to others, you can wear it over your dress or on your wrist (laughs).

L.B.: And why are the rosary consecrated?

Lama Kenpo: You are probably aware of the existence of good and bad energies. All phenomena and objects have their vibrations. Certain waves also come from human thought. Most people know this from their own experience. It happens that you meet a stranger, and there is a pleasant feeling. This may be due to the fact that you felt the joyful mood of his mind. Or, if we wear the clothes of an evil person, we are likely to get sick. All this is connected with subtle energies. Why are rosaries blessed by lamas? If the lama has reached a high level of development and is in a state of awakening, then, touching the rosary, blowing on them, he transfers his good energy to them. At the same time, the recitation of favorable mantras by him is important (I want to highlight the word “favorable” here, because not everyone knows that there are also bad mantras used, for example, to kill a person). At the same time, if a bad person touches the rosary or you put it in the wrong place, then the blessing energy will go away. True, if the master who conducted the consecration has reached the state of primordial wisdom, then his blessing will never leave the rosary.

L.B.: And how should one buy a rosary? Can I accept them as a gift?

Lama Kenpo: It depends on you. The main thing is that they come to you from good hands.

Lama Khenpo Choga Rinpoche. Rosary from good hands.

[Interview with Lama Khenpo Choga Rinpoche / Vela L. Bogdanova] // The path to yourself. - 2006. - No. 6. - P.10 -11.

Buddhist beads (Sanskrit: mala; Tibetan: prenwa) are made from wood, bone, stone, or metal. In this case, the material is often chosen in connection with one or another of its energetic or mystical influences on a person or the environment.

For example, juniper rosary have the ability to scare away evil spirits and eliminate harmful influences; the same properties have a rosary of red coral and dark blue lapis lazuli.

Rosary made of sandalwood, rock crystal in pearls serve to calm, eliminate obstacles and diseases.

Gold, silver, copper, amber, made from lotus seed or bodhi tree- increase life expectancy, contribute to the development of wisdom and increase spiritual merit.

Rosary made of crystal, sandalwood, lotus seeds or bodhi seeds are also recommended during the practice of puja offerings to all blissful (peaceful) yidams (aspects of Enlightenment) and Guru yoga.

For mystical practices, especially those associated with angry yidams, a rosary made of juniper, ebony or mahogany, bone, black crystal, agate, black coral is used.

In the past, warrior monks often wore metal (bronze, iron or silver) rosaries, using them, if necessary, as an improvised weapon.

There are also rosaries made of knots tied in a special way. At the same time, each knot is tied with the reading of certain mantras, prayers and the performance of special contemplations.

The classical number of beads in a Buddhist rosary is 108. However, there are rosaries with a different number of beads. In any case, the number of beads codifies certain provisions of the Teaching. So, for example, 108 beads of a classic rosary symbolizes 108 kinds of desires (Sanskrit: tanha) that darken the human spirit:

A) desires associated with the six senses: sight, touch, smell, taste, hearing and mind (6);
b) in relation to objects of the past, present and future (3);
c) to internal objects and external objects (2);
d) three ways of manifestation: in thoughts, in words and in deeds (3).

Hence the canonical numbers of Buddhism:
- 6x3 = 18;
- 18x2 = 36;
- 36x3 = 108.

There are other decodings of the number 108, however, this one is the most common. The rosary is divided by an additional larger bead (109th), which is crowned with a cone-shaped or cylindrical bead. The big bead symbolizes Wisdom-prajna, and the cone - Method-upaya. Most often, the 36th and 72nd beads are also made somewhat larger or in a different shape. A "tail" of threads comes out of the cylindrical bead, the color of which is often associated with vows taken in the tradition of a particular Buddhist School. So, for example, black can mean taking worldly vows ( Sanskrit: upasaka, tab.: genen), red color - initial monastic vows, obedience ( Sanskrit: sramanera, Tib.: getsul), yellow - full vows of monasticism ( Sanskrit: bhikshu, Tib.: gelong). "Tail" can be double - in this case, one of its parts symbolizes the Practice of Merit, and the second - the Practice of Wisdom; or they can symbolize, respectively, the state of Clarity - shamatha and Insight - vipashyana. The fact that both parts come out of one bead symbolizes their unity-non-duality.

The base of the rosary (in the region of the "tail" or instead of it) is often decorated with one of the tantric symbols made of iron, bronze, silver or gold. From this symbol, one can roughly determine the type of tantras that the owner of the rosary practices. Most often, as such a symbol, there is a vajra, as a general symbol of the Vajrayana, or a dharmachakra, as a symbol of the Buddha's Teachings in general. Gridug is more often worn by lamas (as a symbol of cutting off any defilement) and initiated into the practices of angry yidams; metal mirror - practices of the Dzogchen system; phurbu - initiated into the practices of yidam Vajrakilaya, etc.

Vajrayana rosaries are strung on a cord woven from 5 multi-colored threads: white, blue, yellow, red and green. These threads symbolize the five aspects of Enlightenment, expressed by the figures of the five Enlightened Tathagatas: Vairochana, Akshobhya, Ratnasambhava, Amitabha and Amoghasiddha. During the weaving of the cord, biji syllables are read and a special visualization of these Tathagatas is made. Thus, the cord is, as it were, charged with their energy. Five threads can also be associated with the practice-mandala of a particular yidam - in this case, the mantras and visualizations change accordingly. Sometimes the cord consists of 9 threads - in this case they symbolize the yidam Vajradhara and the eight main bodhisattvas.

Addition from the website of the Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche sangha (http://rangjungyeshe.ru/):

Guru Rinpoche said:
“The best type of mala is considered to be a mala made of jewels (rinchen).
The mediocre type of mala is made from the seeds of a tree or fruit, while the lower type is made from wood, earth, stone or medicine.
A mala made from shells, earth, wood, tree seeds or fruit is used to perform peaceful sadhanas.
A mala made from bodhi seeds completes all dharmas.
Mala from the bodhi tree performs a peaceful activity
A mulberry mala performs subordinating activity.
A mahogany mala is used for wrathful practices.
Elephant tusk malas will carry out any caring activity.
Small beads made of stone are good for augmentation practices.
Beads made from medicine are good for angry practices.
The white color of the mala is associated with the east direction (?), which in turn has a calming effect.
Yellow small for example made from prunus seeds, gold, apricot seeds - increases energy, is used to increase wealth, success and consciousness.
Hold on the middle finger at the level of the navel while facing south.
Amber mala is very good for eye treatment.

Mala may be red, for example from coral or red sandalwood - red is the color of control over others. Hold at the level of the genitals on the ring finger while facing west.

Black, metallic, turquoise- are used when it is necessary to apply destructive activity (I think that the conversation is mostly about iron mala). We sit facing north, we hold the mala on the little finger in the right hand, the brush lies on the knee.
There is an option that steel mala increases virtue.

Bone mala- very powerful and requires the practitioner high level abilities.
blue mala associated with space.
It is best to use small gemstones. They are used in the performance of any karmic activities performed by you.

Mala from Rudraksha seeds- common among Hindu sadhus. Such a mala is considered dangerous because it has great power and the practitioner who uses it must have high abilities. For comparison, using such a small one is the same as driving around a wild stallion ... In order to appreciate the qualities of a wild horse, one must be a good rider.

The head is small or stupa - consists of three beads. Symbol union of three Kai.
The smallest one, the top one, is considered the sound source. She of blue color- a symbol of the unchanging mind of absolute truth.
The two final ones (increasing in size to the bottom bead) represent two types of energy - male and female, thus. it is a symbol of the union of the male and female principle. They are very important in the mala, without them the mala will not work.
There is another interpretation of the bead-stupa - The middle bead - red - is also a symbol of vajjar speech.
The last bead is white, it is considered sacred, because it symbolizes the vajar body.
There should be three, five or nine threads in the mala. Three threads symbolize - three Kayas, five threads symbolize - five Buddhas, nine threads - nine chariots.

For White Tara Practice and White Mahakala needs a mala from Pearls.
For the practice of Green Tara- Jade.
To practice Medicine Buddha- Lapis Lazuli or Turquoise.
For the practice of Amitabha- red jasper.
For the practice of Shakyamuni- Amber.
Practicing Guru Rinpoche in the form of Padmasambhava - animal bones or beads in the form of skulls.
Practicing Vajrasattva and Chenrezig- Rock crystal.

When reciting mantras, the right hand is used, but in visualization practices, only the left hand is used.
When reciting mantras, the correct position of the fingers is important. Most of the mantras are recited with the left hand, holding the mala between the thumb and forefinger, turning the beads "inside the palm." The thumb collects the beads inwards, while the other direction dissipates the energy. Having reached the “head is small”, the direction is changed so as not to dissipate energy.

one). Peaceful mantras are recited at the level of the heart.
2). Mantras for multiplying strength, intelligence and wealth - the rosary is sorted out at the level of the navel through the middle finger. These are the mantras of Manjushri, Dzambala, Amitayus and others.
3). Angry mantras of subjugating activity - through ring finger at the level of the sexual center. These are the mantras - Garuda, Hayagriva, Guru Dragpo, etc.
4). Terrifying mantras - through the little finger at the level of the left knee. These are the mantras of Vajrakilaya, Vajrakumara, Lionhead Dakini. Right there - you can touch with your right hand through the ring finger at the level of the right knee.

Or else like this:
From the book "Explanations of the Generation Stage in accordance with the Practice of Sadhana called" Rod of Non-Dual Clarity", Gyltrul Rinpoche:

Further, the text discusses the counting of mantras with the help of a mala. Another quote from the second Buddha, Padmasambhava, says: "The best kind of mala used to increase the number of repetitions is a mala made from some kind of jewelry (Tib. Rinpoche). A mediocre type of mala is made from tree seeds or fruits, and an inferior type of mala is made from wood, earth, stone or medicine."

Mala made from sea shells, earth, wood or tree seeds or fruits used to perform peaceful sadhanas and peaceful actions.
Mala made of gold- to perform extensive actions.
Mala from red coral– is best for performing strong sadhanas.
Steel or turquoise mala- good for angry activity.
Mala made from "zi" stone or other precious stones, can be used in the performance of any karmic activities that you perform.
Mala made from apricot kernels, will perform extensive activity.
Mala made from "lot tone"(tiny, round black fruit seeds) performs a strong activity.
Mala made from raksha beads, is used in angry practices.
Mala made from bodhi seeds fulfills all dharmas.
Mala from the wood of the bodhi tree, fulfills peaceful karmas.
Mala bead mulberry fulfills strong karmas.
Small mahogany wood used in wrathful practices.
Malas made from elephant bones and, especially his tusks, will perform every caring activity.

Beads made from stone- good for extensive practices. Beads made from medicine- good for angry practitioners. Small with many different types of jewelry good for any practice. However, my advice is that you don't try to make malas with a lot of different beads on them, because if you don't know which combinations are effective, you may not get good results.

Further, the text mentions the various benefits that are derived from the use of various types of malas.
Iron or steel small multiply the virtue that accumulates with each repetition in the usual way. Copper mala multiplies each repetition by a factor of four. Mala paksha multiplies each iteration by 20 million, and pearl mala multiplies 100 million times. Silver mala multiplies by 100,000, and ruby mala 100 million times. Bodhi seed mala manifests limitless benefits for any form of practice, be it peaceful, extensive, strong or wrathful.
You should know everything about the meaning of small and about the best way their binding. The threads in your mala can be three, five or nine, and no other number. The three strands symbolize the three kayas, the five strands symbolize the five Buddhas, and the nine strands symbolize the nine chariots.

Main guru bead may consist of three beads, symbolizing the three vajp states of the being, the three kayas. The smallest bead on top should be blue, possibly lapis lazuli. The color blue symbolizes the unchanging mind of absolute truth. The middle bead should be red, which symbolizes vajra speech, and the secret bead should be white, which symbolizes the vajra body.

Your mala should be blessed by a lama, and you should constantly bless your mala by energizing it yourself. You must put energy into your mala before counting the mantras to get real benefit.
You must clean your mouth and hands and then your mala before using it. You can also saturate it with sandalwood oil.
Then generate yourself as a deity by taking the mala in your left hand and placing the guru bead vertically in the center. Chant the mantra that transforms all dharmas into awareness of their true nature: "OM SWABAVA SHUDDOO SARVA DHARMA SWABAVA SHUDDHO HAM." This mantra purifies and transforms impure perception into awareness of voidness.

Out of the void, the bead guru appears as the central deity in the mandala, and the other beads appear as his retinue. This part of the practice is meditation on Samayasattva. Next, invoke jnanasattva. Invite the being of primordial wisdom to come, attracting them to dissolve into sayasattva, as it happens in sadhana. Invite the beings of wisdom to come from their pure lands to the space before you. They then dissolve into your mala and stay there. Thus, each part of your mala is a complete mandala. This includes the central deity, retinue, lotus seat, ornaments, hand paraphernalia, colors, and so on. Your blessed mala thus multiplies each syllable of the mantra, which you then repeat 100,000 times, plus it creates good karma. So it's very important to do just that.

Your mala represents not only the form of the deity, but the speech of the deity as well. For example, if you chant the Hundred-syllable Mantra, the guru bead represents the syllable "OM" and the other beads represent the rest of the syllables.

Guru Padmasambhava said, “Whenever you chant peaceful mantras, use the tip of your thumb to rotate the mala. When chanting extensive mantras, use the middle finger. angry mantras." Use only your left hand to count the mantras. The right hand is used very rarely; for example, in some angry practices. Some books teach you to use both hands, but don't just use your right hand.
Whatever kind of practice you do, whether it be peaceful, wrathful, strong, or extensive, always be aware that the thumb is the vajra hook that hooks spiritual forces, deities, and other blessings. Also, it is very easy to move the beads exactly thumb.

The text does not explain in detail, but there are some extensive teachings on how to move small beads when certain practices are performed. In some angry practices, you pull the beads with both hands, and so on.
The following teachings, which explain how to take care of your mala when you are not using it, come straight from the lips of Guru Padmasambhava. If your mala has been repeatedly blessed by the great lamas, your own teacher, and yourself during your deity practice, it should accompany you like a shadow. You keep the root samaya of the vajra mala by never letting it leave your body..

Many different recommendations pertain to proper care and use of the mala, but only a few are mentioned here. Never let it cool off from your body heat. Never show your secret vajra mala to other people. Never give your mala into the hands of other people. Do not send her anywhere and do not entrust the care of her to others. And never give your mala into the hands of those who have broken their vows, or those whose spiritual views differ sharply from your own.
Hold your mala in your hands only when doing the repetitions of the mantra. Do not play and do not tease her in vain. Do not guess on it and do not use it as an abacus.

A rosary is a certain number of knots or beads tied to threads, more often rounded, strung on a thread, the ends of which are tied. The use of a rosary for counting when reading prayers in Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity is well known. In Islam, a rosary of 99 beads is used according to the number of epithets of Allah found in the Koran (now usually 33 beads), among Buddhists - from 108 beads, according to the number of mantras uttered when praying, in Christianity - from 33 beads, according to the number of earthly years lived by Jesus Christ .

The rosary was usually made from the seeds of fruits, wood, fossils, animal bones and various stones (in Christianity, unlike Islam, serpentine is not used to make the rosary - "the stone of the serpent - the tempter." For Muslims, the consecrated rosary of serpentine is the best gift) .

A simple sorting of the rosary allows you to put in order nervous system, get rid of insomnia, depression, relieve anxiety; develop sensitivity and accuracy of finger movements; when sorting out the rosary, information is better absorbed and "fits"; as therapeutic massage fingers activates the points associated with various organs and systems of the body.

The magical aspect of using the rosary is that the rosary accumulates the energy of prayers, mantras, certain texts, symbols, mental states, gains verbal, mental and other energy, eventually becomes an object of power and, entering into resonance with the "owner" field, positively change its field structure.
In esotericism, the rosary, without losing its original meaning, is used to fix complex magical programs and corrections. Any talisman you make is a monad that can be broken. The rosary, on the other hand, consists of many, but they make up the whole. This is something that constantly cleans, constantly pumps up energy, constantly keeps the flow, this is a talisman that is in constant motion.
Choosing the right stones for beads, you can very effectively carry out not only energy cleansing of the body, individual organs and chakras, but also their energy pumping, which allows the rosary to be widely used in lithotherapy and biocorrections. For example, in India, everyone knows that the rosary, on which a certain mantra is recited for a long time, has magic power heal wounds and heal diseases.

The number of beads is compiled either by the number of words in a prayer, conspiracy, program (bead \u003d word), they can be universal, mystical - 11, 22, 33, 40 beads. A hieroglyphic structure can be built on the rosary, for example, a lasso symbol (Strength, for example) is drawn (engraved) on each bead - and pumped up.
There can be a rosary on the beads of the name - you and your loved one, if it is not there - you, love, a couple - any thought form.
You can fix the name of the company and its income, for example, for a year.
The rosary can be a monostructure, or it can be assembled from various stones.
Magic beads must be necessarily thematic.
Astrological: selected individually in accordance with the task (for example, pumping energy weak planets, attenuation negative impact planets or tense aspects, etc.).
Monetary: Green stones - malachite, jasper, maybe green garnet - uvarovite, grossular; onyx, chalcedony.
Love: Rose quartz, strawberry quartz, rhodochrosite, pure rhodonite, pink tourmaline - rubellite (yang energy of color is a priority); pomegranate, pink ruby.
Marriage - family: Mix pink stones with green ones; for example, rhodochrosite with malachite for well-being in love.
Career, society: Blue - lapis lazuli, turquoise, sapphire, sodalite. Society, achievement of power - maybe dark amethyst, dark purple fluorite.
Health: Fluorite - green (rejuvenation), yellow, multicolor; agate, onyx, chalcedony. Yellow, green stones are very good; universal carnelian (preferably orange), for blood cleansing - carnelian.
Cacholong is used for health - women, children, the elderly (age-related problems).

Rosary - the meaning of the rosary and their device. Use of the rosary
Buddhist Mantras are sacred phrases and expressions that have a specific energy and in a positive way affect the human mind. Their power leads us to the heights of consciousness, bringing us closer to the moment of inner fullness and harmony, which we can share in the environment and enjoy true happiness. Such happiness does not depend on any external factors, and therefore cannot be destroyed by anyone or anything. The Tibetan term "mantra" roughly translates as "protection of the mind."

Use of the rosary
The rosary is an ancient and powerful tool in prayer and spiritual work. Their use is an excellent example of how objects of the external, material world can become our guide to the inner, spiritual world. They are used in most modern religions and spiritual movements, and this simple and ingenious invention is rightfully considered one of the symbols of spiritual wisdom.
There are several main traditions of making rosaries, among which the most famous are Hindu-Buddhist, Muslim and Christian. It can be assumed that the Eastern traditions (Hindu, Tantric and Buddhist) traveled to the West, where they were assimilated and became part of the Christian traditions. The classic Indian rosary is called mala and consists of 108 beads and one more - Sumeru. The latter is a symbol of the spiritual peak of the world, Mount Meru, and at the same time a reference point when repeating prayers with a rosary. Hindu and Buddhist mantras are also repeated using sumirni - a rosary with fewer beads. This number is most often a multiple of 108 (i.e. 54 or 27 beads).
The most common Christian rosary also consists of 54 beads - five decades, separated by four large beads, and another 5 beads preceding the crucifix or medallion. This form of the rosary is due to the structure of the Catholic Rosary, which is still the main form of prayer for Catholics.
Of course, other types of rosaries are also used in Christianity, but they are all built according to general principle: a separate branch for a crucifix or medallion and a decade (tens) of beads (they are mainly used to read the "Virgin Mary"), separated by larger or different beads (for the "Our Father" and litanies). There are large rosaries for 15 decades, designed to read all the Sacraments of the Rosary at once. There are also very small rosaries for ten beads, intended for one dozen "Virgins".
In some rosaries, the decades are separated by medallions depicting the respective Mysteries of the Rosary, making it easier for devotees to meditate. Good, well-made and decorated with a beautiful crucifix or medallion (they often depict patron saints), the rosary becomes a reliable tool in spiritual practice.
Bead materials are varied. The most common are rosaries made of different types of wood, semi-precious minerals or crystal. For Hindus, the most valuable are the rosary with sandalwood and rudraksha beads (sacred grains, according to legend, endowed with the blessing of Shiva). The rosary beads are very sophisticated, made from specially processed rose petals and decorated with the image of the Virgin Mary. The material of the beads is important insofar as it is able to accumulate spiritual energy, which we invariably transfer to the rosary when reading prayers or mantras, unconsciously consecrating them as a symbol of our faith. No wonder a large number of miracles is associated with the rosary of great saints, touching which can heal even the most terrible diseases.
The rosary is not just a means of counting repeated prayers. They also help us in concentration of the mind, occupying our hands while our consciousness is occupied with thoughts of God. Not without reason, in many phenomena, the image of the Virgin Mary held a rosary in her hands, calling on people to defeat the forces of death and hell with the help of this simple object and prayer.
The rosary is easy enough to use when reciting any of the Miraculous Liberty Rosaries. So, when reading the Miraculous Rosary, you can repeat on nine beads of the decade "Theotokos", and on the tenth - "Affirmation of the Inner Christ." When reciting other rosaries that alternate "Mother of God" with affirmations, simply give the affirmations and "Hail Mary" on one bead and skip the tenth on the large bead for a large affirmation. It's simple enough. It only takes a couple of minutes to come up with a way to read the Rosaries with the rosary.
If during the day you need spiritual help, but there is no opportunity to read the Rosary, simply repeat the necessary version of the "Mother of God" by the rosary, which you will effortlessly memorize after several readings of the Rosary. Such a repetition will allow you to stay in the spirit of the Rosary throughout the day, not for a moment stopping your spiritual practice and spiritual growth.

Consider the device of the rosary.
A rosary is only then a "completed" construction, when the ends of the base (thread or rope) with beads, pebbles, plates (or other attachments, for convenience, I will call them grains) strung on it are connected to each other, thereby forming ring (circle). In previous lessons, we have already discussed that in magic, the ring is a strong enough element that allows you to accumulate power in an object. The allegorical meaning of the ring is the crown of faith.
In addition, the rosary represents the cyclical nature of time, endless repetition, asceticism. They are associated with both continuity and the stairway to heaven.
But in order. Rosaries have found their application in Christianity (both in Orthodoxy and Catholicism), Old Believers, Islam, Buddhism, among shamans, etc. And each religion had a rosary of strictly specified parameters. Looking at a specific rosary, you can always tell who exactly they belong to, a Buddhist or, for example, a Christian. In addition, by the appearance of the rosary, one can determine the degree of preparation of the owner, and his belonging to one or another branch of the teaching (if a small number of beads in the rosary is enough for a novice, then at further stages this number will not be enough).

The variety of the rosary can be judged by the exhibition "Rosary", which was held in St. Petersburg, in the Russian Ethnographic Museum (REM). In the collection of Natalia Zhukova, one could get acquainted with 470 variants of the rosary of different religious denominations, peoples and eras.

What are the characteristic features?

The object at the end of the string of the rosary:
An object is usually attached to the place where the threads are tied into a knot.
Orthodoxy: a cross and a brush (a brush and three grains, a cross and three grains).
Catholicism: cross.
Buddhism: two tassels or a few beads. A rosary with a red thread and a tassel is intended for the practice of tantra. In some Buddhist rosaries, one larger and often, unlike the rest, golden pearl is the sign of the Buddha. Brahmin rosary ends with two equal tassels orange color at the junction of the ends of the thread, that is, they come from a single knot.

Hinduism: two equivalent brushes.
Old Believers: a leather strip consisting of four triangular leather blades. Such a triangle of the blade symbolizes the Holy Trinity, the sheathing of the blade is the gospel teaching.
Islam: they end with an oblong bone or pebble (in front of the tassel), which symbolizes faith in the one God.

Symbolism of the rosary:
Buddhism: the wheel of the Law, as well as the wheel of Samsara, on which beads-phenomena are strung.
Christianity: the mystical rose garden of the Virgin
Hinduism: the thread symbolizes the unmanifested, the ring - the cyclical nature of time.

Recall that the first rosary arose in India and exists there precisely as a cult accessory. The rosary is a visual representation of the doctrine of the cycle of being, consisting in an innumerable series of rebirths, which is quite in tune with Buddhist teachings. However, Buddhism emerged from Brahmanism. And the rosary of the Brahmins is quite different from all other varieties that appeared later.
Many centuries ago (approximately 15,000 years), the Brahmins created the rosary, which was a symbol of worship of the Sun. Moreover, if the gods could wear the symbol of the Sun on their chest, then the brahmins, realizing that they should not equate the gods and themselves, preferred to wear this symbol on their hand. The rosaries of the Brahmins were black and were called "rudrakshas", that is, "The Eyes of Rudra".
Accordingly, inferiors could not equate themselves with the priests and wore this symbol in other places (or maybe not at all). The rosary of the Brahmins reflects the model of the Sun and its circulation in the Cosmos, and is a religious symbol of worship. The teachers passed their rosary to the students as special sign achievement of a high level in the Teaching.

Old Believers: a ring is a sign of unceasing prayer, a ladder of spiritual ascent to heaven.
Material:
From what they just did not make a rosary. They were made from wood, from seeds or fruit stones, corals and pearls, metals and minerals, even from animal horns or vertebrae.
Hinduism: as mentioned above - the berries of the rudraksha tree, tulsi wood.
Islam: at one of the exhibitions dedicated to the rosary, an exhibit was shown - the mullah's rosary from Kabarda, made from growths on the roots of a tree, in these rosaries each grain was unique, non-repeating.
Buddhism: corals, trees, minerals, metals, bone. Followers of the Buddhist tradition of Vajrayana ("Diamond" or Secret Vehicle) especially appreciate the rosary, made from the bone of the frontal part of the human skull. In Tibet, the dead are not buried in the ground, it is almost impossible there, and they are not burned (the lack of firewood affects), but they are left in special places where mountain vultures are actively engaged in corpses, and after them only the skull and bones remain. It is clear that such a rosary is a rarity, and more often you can see just an imitation - a rosary made of animal or human bones, in the form of a miniature skull.
The thread, pommel, tassel and dividers in Buddhism have special names and meanings. The material and color depended on which gods they were going to pray with the help of these rosaries: "white ones were dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, red ones - to Hayagriva or Padmasambhava, yellow ones were preferred by followers of the Gelugpa school, etc." (N. L. Zhukovskaya)

The material is selected based on the tasks set by the owner. Juniper, dark blue lapis lazuli, red coral are best suited to scare away evil spirits, eliminate the harmful effect on the owner on the rosary. For removing obstacles, calming and better resistance to disease, the rosary is best made from sandalwood, pearls or rock crystal.
To increase life expectancy, promote the development of wisdom and increase spiritual development, rosaries are selected from lotus seeds, amber, bodhi tree seeds, as well as from gold, copper or silver.
For mystical practices, a rosary made of juniper, ebony or mahogany, bone, black crystal, agate, black coral is used.
A cedar rosary will help relieve headaches (brain tension), reduce pressure, improve sleep and dreams. And besides this, they will protect from evil people, sorcerers, nightmares. In addition to touching in the hands, such a rosary should be regularly applied to the head and to sore spots before going to bed, and at night - put them under the pillow.
By the way, in addition to "spiritual weapons" against dark forces, the rosary could be used as real weapons. Among the exotic varieties of oriental weapons, there are rosaries with grains of metal (usually iron), which are flexible edged weapons of shock-crushing action, similar in technique to combat chains.
It is known that nerve endings are concentrated in the fingertips, which are directly connected with the brain centers. Look at the kids: by developing fine motor skills of the hands, giving them peas, beans, we develop not only hands, we develop brain activity. Smart Chinese have long been used to relieve stress, fatigue walnuts. By rolling them, you act through the endings on your fingers directly on the brain. The rosary works on the same principle. Turning them over different fingers, you can influence the most diverse aspects of the life of your body, and, first of all, your emotional state.
No less intelligent Japanese tell us about the influence of the rosary on our body in the famous work of the scientist Toku-hiro Namikoshi "Shiatsu - Japanese Finger Pressure Therapy". It says that even simple pressure and rubbing of the fingers helps to calm down and relax.
For example, by engaging your thumb and forefinger, you can relieve headaches and help with breathing difficulties. By attracting the middle finger, you can remove anger, act on depression. The ring finger will help increase the body's resistance to pressure drops and magnetic storms.
If you use your palm (crumpling the rosary, holding it in your fist), the work of all internal organs is normalized.
In addition, such work with the rosary also affects diseased joints, developing them and relieving pain, for example, with arthritis.
This is recommended not only for those who are already ill, but also for those who may be threatened by the disease due to a tendency to it (occupational disease). And to us, sitting at the keyboard and tapping on it with our fingers, this applies in the first place. Practicing with the rosary, you force the rudimentary muscles of the fingers to work and train, which atrophy in the course of life.
And one of the aspects of the influence of the rosary on our body is their help in concentration. If you need to remember some important information in a large volume (texts, poems, words foreign language), you need to sequentially sort through the beads of the rosary, each time you shift one grain, repeating one or another information unit.
In addition to the influence of the grains directly on the nerve endings, the influence of the material will also be added.
Shungite beads help with thyroid diseases, returning its functioning to normal; vegetative-vascular dystonia, reduced vitality. Carnelian rosary will help with headaches.
The rosary can be a very good amulet gift that you can give to your friends.

And finally, the rosary in dreams.
If someone just touches the rosary, this is to your joy or your satisfaction. But if a priest sorts them out, this is unfortunately. If you yourself sort out the rosary, this is a signal that you are afraid to take risks without full confidence in the successful completion of your plan.
Putting on a rosary or beads on a thread - to help from the rich. Scatter - to the loss of one's position among friends and acquaintances. Buying a rosary signals that in reality you need someone's help to fulfill your plan.

The rosary is a universal "tool" for immersion in various states. Without resorting to any verbal formulas, the rosary can immerse you in your thoughts, if you have killed all the "larva" in yourself, your decisions will be very productive. It is better to “sort out” the rosary with the left hand. If you want to go to the Astral, turn the rosary with your left hand, and right hand draw the sign "Z" - z (the ring finger touches the tip of the thumb, the little finger lies on the ring finger, the index finger goes around the middle one). And if you are new to entering the Astral, then you simply need such a “fingering”. Now let's talk about "VERBAL FORMULA". Each verbal formula needs its own rosary (i.e. you should not use the same rosary to go into the Astral and concentrate on the book ...). This is explained by the fact that over time (after the completion of many cycles), the rosary absorbs (writes) a formula into its matrix and strengthens only the action for which the formula was compiled. The ideal formula is considered to be a “three-part formula”, i.e. the sentence (formula) is divided into three parts (not necessarily equal) for example:

1. "Soon"
2. "I'll go out"
3. "To the Astral"

The ideal rosary is considered to be a rosary of "99" bones without marks (if there are, it is better to remove them, otherwise you will go astray, or you will have to set aside time for training). Training in one case or another is needed, you must get used to the rosary and at the same time do not forget about the "VERBAL FORMULA". Training is considered "mobile meditation", i.e. you have to walk and "read". In the first couple, you still need “marker bones”, they will show if you lost or missed the bones (on this moment You may not understand me, but when you start, you will definitely understand). In general, keep it up.

NOTE: DO NOT USE ROSARY IN MAGIC OF DEATH AND MEDITATIONS ON DEATH, you simply will not be able to cope with them, THEY will provide you with a quick “slope”, and later your death.

What is a rosary? How to spin this item? What are they needed for? There are many questions. Let's figure it out.

So, what is the rosary for and what is it all about? This is a special tool known in various religious and spiritual practices, which is used to concentrate the spiritual energy of its owner. With such a deep mystical meaning, this item looks modest: beads strung on a silk thread or cord.

What should be guided by when buying a rosary? The types of this item are exactly what you need to pay attention to when choosing them for yourself. The number of beads and their sizes depend precisely on which religious tradition the owner of this item belongs to.

History of the rosary

Now we know what a rosary is. How to twist correctly, we will figure it out a little later. Now let's talk about their history. This item came to us from the East. The first mention of the rosary is found in Indian legends of the second millennium BC. Even then, they were used to help focus on reading sacred verses or other sacred texts.

The first rosary was made from a leather cord, on which knots were tied at an equal distance from each other, most often it was the width of a finger, so that it was convenient to sort out such a cord with one hand.

A little later, they began to string the bones of berries, wooden blocks, grains on a cord. Finally, beads became the main material for creating, and a spherical shape was chosen, since it is precisely such rosaries that are most convenient to twist. Beads were made from various types of wood or turned from stone, semi-precious minerals.

This name itself in Russian comes from the root "chet", as in the words "read" and "count". The tradition of using this item came to Russia at the end of the Middle Ages through the monastic Orthodox tradition.

Hindu rosary

This rosary contains 108 beads. But their composition is not uniform. So, after 36 beads in a row, a knot can be tied that plays the role of a separator, or the 36th bead will differ from the others in size. The “grains” of the rosary are also separated in the row after the 72nd bead. The last bead is also different from the others. She closes the circle, and small brushes of lace threads are released from her.

What are rosaries for? This subject of spiritual practice in India is an attribute of several deities, and above all Brahma and Shiva. The main material for making beads is different types of wood. These long rosaries are worn around the neck, connecting them into a ring, if possible, they try to wrap the cord with beads around the neck three times.

Buddhist rosary

In the classic version, these rosaries contain 108 beads, according to the number of mantras required for reading. The main difference from Hindu:

the last bead is gold, personifies the Buddha;
brushes are not produced from cord threads;
the cord itself consists of five types of thread, which symbolize the 5 elements, as is customary in eastern mysticism.

Also in Buddhism, it is allowed to wear a rosary with fewer "grains". They can have 54, 27 or 21 beads. Extremely rare - 18 beads. Also in Buddhism, it is customary to wear long jewelry in a special bag, and short ones on the wrist. That's what they are called - pasterns. In Buddhism, the rosary can be made of wood, bone, or carved from semi-precious stones.

Christian version of the rosary

The rosary came into this religious tradition much later than in Eastern religions. They appeared in the fourth century AD. The number of "grains" and the meaning of use vary depending on which church tradition the owner of the rosary belongs to. What is the difference between Catholic and How many beads in both? Now this will be discussed.

Orthodox rosary

How many beads are in an Orthodox rosary? They have a different number of them. The classic version is 33 pieces, this is the number of years lived by Christ on Earth. But there may be a different number of grains, a multiple of 12. So, there are rosaries in 24 or 36 parts. Every 12 grains are separated by a boundary in the form of a knot. However, in the initial version of the rosary, which was called a string and consisted only of knots, there should have been 103 elements.

Later, it became a tradition to decorate the junction with a cross or a small icon of a saint who patronizes a person. Such a rosary is needed to count the prayers read.

Catholic variant

The Catholics call the rosary "rosary", it contains 50 beads, divided into ten pieces. The monks wore them on their belts. The item was also decorated with a cross or a tassel. There are other options for the number of beads in the Catholic tradition. The main thing is that it must be a multiple of ten. The smallest are the finger rosary. These are only 10 beads connected in a ring that can be put on your finger.

Rosary in Islam

In this tradition, the number of grains must be a multiple of 11, since it is from this number of parts that the muslim prayer. The rosary is closed in a ring, at the junction there is an oblong bead, often with a tassel. If they have 33 or 99 beads, and this is the maximum number allowed, since Allah has the same number of names, then every 11 beads are separated, for example, by smaller grains.

secular rosary

In the last two centuries, the rosary began to be used not only for prayer and repetition sacred texts. Today it is:

stylish decoration;
help in meditation;
tool in the treatment of traditional medicine;
way to focus on an important issue.

In fact, having come into the world, the rosary has not lost its original meaning - they are still needed in order to help their owner focus on something: business, relaxation or treatment.

Greek rosary

This is a very special kind of rosary. They are used exclusively for throwing in the hands and are called "komboloi". These are 20 beads that are connected in a circle, but they can have any decorations on them. Sometimes komboloi are connected by a chain or their cord is much longer than a row of beads. How to twist the Greek rosary is not easy to explain, because there are many different practices for tossing the komboloi. It is important to throw the beads along the free part of the lace in various intricate ways.

Kamboloi give their owner a status, and therefore they tend to be made from expensive materials, most often from semi-precious stones, pearls or amber.

Some interesting facts

Any rosary differs from ordinary beads precisely in that the "grains" are arranged freely along the cord, so that it is more convenient to sort them out.

Did you buy this set of beads for yourself? In the world, the rosary is usually plucked with one hand. To do this, they put a lace with beads on the edge of the palm, and throw the “grains” with the thumb, slightly resting each of them on the side. index finger. And when reading prayers, the rosary is twisted with both hands, focusing attention on each bead for a long time, while the sacred text is spoken.

In the Middle Ages, a priest who had just completed the rite of tonsure was given a rosary as a symbolic weapon of faith. And in the general Christian tradition, the rosary was taken away from the defrocked monk, that is, from the clergyman who refused to serve, along with the cross.

Now you know what a rosary is. How to twist or, rather, sort out and why they are needed, we also tried to tell in detail. Now you can go shopping!