Oddly enough, Buddhism is becoming very popular in our country, and a very important attribute of this religion is the rosary. But since not all of us live in countries where Buddhism is one of the main religions, or we do not have the opportunity to travel to such countries, we can make Buddhist beads with our own hands, and this article will help you in this fascinating task.
Although all beads are similar to each other, they have a fundamental difference; they differ in the number of beads. The meshes are made very simply, these are ordinary beads put on an elastic band or thread; most often there is a tassel at the end, but it may not be there; it can be replaced with a larger bead or a different shape.
Most often, Buddhist rosaries consist of 108 beads, but sometimes their number may be different (18, 21, 27, 36, 54). The materials are chosen exclusively of natural origin, no plastic, most often wood. It can also be a variety of stones, including precious or semi-precious, bones, dried berries, corals, lapis lazuli, crystal, pearls, and so on.
The rosary can be carried in the hand, fingered, worn around the neck or on the hand, but the most important thing is that a person must believe in their sacred meaning and feel harmony in his heart while holding the rosary in his hand.
History of the accessory
Rosary beads first appeared in India, then in the Middle East, and from there they came to Europe. Currently, this attribute is used in all religions: Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam. In different faiths, this accessory varies slightly, for example, in the number of beads, links, the type of dividers and the main bead, called the guru. Differences in the number of components by religion:
- Buddhism - 108 pcs.;
- Orthodoxy - 33 pcs.;
- Catholicism - 50 or 64 pcs.;
- Islam - 99 pcs.
What is the main bead:
- in Buddhism - two tassels with beads;
- in Orthodoxy - a cross with a tassel;
- in Catholicism - a cross;
- in Islam - a stone with a tassel.
It is believed that the rosary will become a talisman for the owner only if it is made from natural materials and in compliance with certain rules. The most ancient are Buddhist rosaries. They began to be used even before the beginning of our era. 108 beads in them mean the number of earthly desires that can destroy the soul. There is another explanation why the necklace is made up of this number of elements. If you multiply all the planets, zodiac signs, quarters of the Moon and lunar constellations, you will get exactly the number 108. Two tassels mean the masculine and feminine principles and symbolize the origin of life on earth.
Material
Plexiglas has long been known for its excellent characteristics:
- Waterproof, resistant to chemicals, ultraviolet radiation, low temperatures. Since the rosary has to be used in different conditions, including weather conditions, this quality is very useful.
- Strength. Of course, without this property it would be impossible to create durable products, so the rosary made will be practical.
- Ease. Another important parameter, otherwise it would be inconvenient to throw the product in one hand.
- Thanks to transparency, you can achieve original visual effects when creating products.
- Environmental friendliness. Using plexiglass rosaries is completely safe.
- Ease of processing allows you to create products of the most ornate shapes.
Benefits of use
Doctors confirm that nerve endings connected to the brain are concentrated at the ends of a person’s fingers. For example, in order to develop a child’s speech, it is recommended to offer them activities related to fine motor skills. The Chinese knew about this in ancient times. During stressful situations, they rolled walnuts in their fingers.
This is exactly the principle on which rosary beads work. When a person is nervous or trying to concentrate on something very important, it is useful to finger the beads with all fingers. This simple action will help improve your emotional and mental state.
According to Japanese doctors, fingering smooth beads with your thumb and forefinger can help you cope with headaches and respiratory diseases. By irritating the nerve endings on the middle finger, a person gets rid of depression. To improve the functioning of internal organs, it is necessary to use the entire palm.
Well, and, of course, rosaries are a religious attribute, with the help of which prayers or mantras are counted. The text should be said as many times as there are beads in the rosary. It is recommended to carry out the process in a secluded place so that no one interferes with concentration.
Plexiglas product
The entire process of making jewelry is rightfully considered a real art, because the author of the creation can use a huge number of techniques that will allow him to create his own small masterpiece. How to make a rosary from plexiglass?
For this you will need the following materials:
- plexiglass;
- hacksaw for metal;
- nylon thread;
- needle;
- dyes (fucorcin, iodine, brilliant green, blue).
Braiding a pigtail in this case is completely unnecessary if you don’t know how to do it. It will be enough to string the beads on a nylon thread. True, the process of manufacturing the product itself is quite labor-intensive, since you have to deal with small parts.
Manufacturing process:
- Using a hacksaw, cut out the required number of beads of the same size from a sheet of plexiglass;
- The size of all links should not exceed 1×2 cm;
- It is advisable to make the outer beads a little larger than the rest if the rosary needs to be made reversible;
- The total number of all links can be easily determined by the size of the palm;
- Then, in the center of each bead, you need to carefully drill through holes;
- Using a regular needle, thread all the links onto a nylon thread;
- To obtain a creative multi-colored accessory, all links can be painted in different colors using regular iodine, blue and other coloring materials.
DIY making
You can make a rosary for yourself or use it as a gift for family or friends. They are used as a religious attribute, an accessory that emphasizes an image, or an object that calms the nerves. To make rosary beads with your own hands, you need to study their history and purpose. After all, they will be useful only if they are made according to all the rules.
Material quality
The correct rosary is made only from natural materials: stone, precious metals, wood, organic glass. When selecting raw materials, you should understand for what purpose the souvenir is needed:
- juniper will help scare away evil spirits or get rid of bad influences;
- pearls or rock crystal remove obstacles in life and increase the immunity of its owner;
- a gold, silver, copper or amber product will increase the life expectancy of its owner, add wisdom and fortitude to him;
- cedar helps relieve headaches, reduces blood pressure, and improves sleep.
Process steps
All rosaries have a certain structure. They consist of beads strung on a strong fishing line. Between them at certain intervals there are separator beads. A must-have is the guru bead, which represents different objects in different faiths.
To make Buddhist rosary, you will need:
- beads - 107 pcs.;
- strong thread;
- rope;
- large bead - 1 pc.;
- scissors;
- glue.
The beads must be the same size. They are strung on a strong thread. It's best if it's fishing line. After each element you should tie a knot. It symbolizes connection with the Universe and helps to focus on meditation. After all the elements are put on, you need to make and secure the main guru bead. In Buddhism, it consists of two tassels with beads.
Let's start the lesson
To work you will need:
- Beads (preferably used from natural materials);
- Silk thread (you can use an elastic band, then the rosary will stretch, but traditionally the beads are strung on a thread);
- Separating bead with three holes;
- Guru bead;
- Brush;
- Scissors;
- Glue.
You need to take exactly 107 absolutely identical (in color and size) beads and put them on a thread (or elastic band, depending on which base you chose). Now the separating bead is used: we insert both ends of the cord into it, on which the beads are already put on. We insert the ends into our guru bead. The product needs to be secured, we do this using the most ordinary knots.
It is very important at this stage not to forget about the distances between the beads; if you are going to sort them out, these intervals should be small.
We attach the tassel, tying it with a very ordinary knot. Now put beads of the same size on each piece of cord as on the rosary. We tie the ends tightly; for reliability, you can seal the ends with glue.
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These are the rosary we got. What other options are there, you can see in the photo:
What is a rosary
Rosary beads are a special type of religious paraphernalia. They are used by believers of different faiths. In Orthodoxy, all monastics have them. The very first religious objects of this type appeared in the 4th century in monastic communities. They were invented so that the inhabitants of the communities, who were mostly illiterate, could count the required number of bows and prayers during prayer work.
The monks had to pray not only during the allotted time, but also while working. Usually the work was monotonous, which is why they often felt sleepy. By fingering the rosary, they concentrated better on their work and did not fall asleep. Now every monk, choosing monastic life, must receive this item.
What do rosary beads look like? These are beads strung on ribbons or threads closed into a ring. Small beads are separated from each other by larger balls or knots. Separation occurs after every ten balls. Orthodox religious elements must have a cross.
How many beads are in a rosary? There can be from 1 dozen to 10 in a chain. They are made of different materials. There are stone, wood, glass, woven wool, soutache.
Differences in Christian and Muslim rosaries
Muslim rosary. The main feature of Christian rosaries is the presence of a cross at the ends of the threads.
Therefore, it is quite easy to distinguish Orthodox rosaries from Muslim ones. In addition, there are 11 beads in a Muslim rosary link, according to the writings of the Prophet Muhammad. Accordingly, the total number of beads can range from 11 to 99 pieces, according to the number of names of Allah.
If Orthodox rosaries are most often made of wood, then Muslim products are made of glass and semi-precious stones. They are usually strung on a silk thread. Often prayer beads for Muslims look like a work of art and amaze with their luxury. The junction of the thread is decorated with a brush, a crescent or a family talisman.
What is adultery?
How Orthodox Christians Use Rosary Beads
This attribute helps Orthodox Christians read prayers. Most often, a believer reads the Jesus Prayer (“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”), sorting through smaller beads. When it reaches a large grain, say the prayer “Rejoice to the Virgin Mary,” Guardian Angel, and also “It is worthy to eat.” Reaching the cross, he reads the main great prayer - “Our Father.”
Is it possible for the laity to use this cult paraphernalia? It is believed that the laity cannot use it without blessing. Before purchasing, a layman must take a blessing, because not every Christian knows how to use this item. The priest will explain how to use the rosary, which ones to choose, which prayers to read.
But there is also an explanation: blessing is required when a person undertakes a feat of prayer in order to read prayers according to special rules. To find out whether you need to take a blessing, it is better to ask your confessor.
Usually the priest advises using them during private prayer. These items act as an aid to the worshiper in concentrating on his prayers. They have no other function.
Do not think that they are endowed with any magical or protective properties. They don't have this, so it shouldn't be worn as decoration, displayed on every occasion, or hung in the car.
Where should Orthodox rosaries be kept?
- In the Orthodox faith, publicly displaying one's prayer beads is considered unacceptable behavior for a true believer. Therefore, it is advisable to store this religious item in the place where the Bible or prayer book is located. If you need to take the rosary with you, you need to put it in your pocket or wear it around your neck under your clothes.
- It is also allowed to carry rosaries in a special bag, which is taken out when necessary to perform daily prayer. But using a rosary as a beauty accessory or hanging it in a car is prohibited for a believer.
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Types of Orthodox prayer beads
Christians must use only Orthodox attributes. In this case, you need to know how they differ from religious objects of other faiths.
When choosing this spiritual item, pay attention to the number of links. For the Orthodox, it is a multiple of ten: 20, 30, 50, 100, 150. Previously, they were made only from leather (lestovka) or wool (knots). Stone and wood came to us from other spiritual cultures, but can also be used when reading prayers if you have received a blessing.
What are the differences between Buddhist rosaries?
Buddhist rosary beads (malas) are also made of beads strung on a cord, at the end of which there are many threads similar to a “tail”. While reciting mantras, believers also sort out the beads so as not to lose count and not miss the mantra.
Typically, Buddhist malas consist of 108 beads, but there are 18, 21, 27 beads.
When mantras are read, the malas accumulate energy, coming into resonance with the energy of the person praying. Therefore, in Buddhism they are used as amulets that bring good luck and improve the life of the wearer.
People who profess Buddhism have been using the same beads for a long time. During use, they gain positive energy, which helps a person get rid of nervous tension, gain peace of mind, and recover from many diseases.
The meaning of rosaries for Orthodox Christians
Modern Orthodox Christians serve rosaries in the same way as they served their spiritual ancestors:
- A cord with beads will help you turn to God at any time. A reminder of continuous prayer with a sequence of words and actions.
- Maintaining attention and concentration. The tactile sensation of the beads helps the believer maintain the direction of the text.
- The rhythmic fingering of the rosary sets a certain pace and does not allow one to deviate from the prayer.
- Carrying a rosary with you allows you to turn to God anywhere.
- By the shape and number of beads, one can determine the degree of the owner’s affiliation with the faith and his hierarchical level.
- Blessed rosaries are endowed with the ability to heal diseases.
- The configuration of the rosary is a circle, which symbolizes infinity and, with due diligence, the opportunity to touch eternal spiritual life.
For a true believer, the correct use of rosaries with the reading of prayers, if it is impossible to visit the temple, replaces church services.
Types of Buddhist rosary
Malas are made in different colors and different materials. This is done because each color and material has its own effect on the body.
Usually the color of the beads and the color of the thread are made in the same color.
How do they affect a person, based on color:
- For treatment, white objects made of pearls, white sandalwood, crystal, and ivory are used. White color purifies and heals all diseases;
- Yellow sunny color will help increase energy in the body and increase wealth;
- Black and red are suitable for tactical practices.
The color, thickness of the thread on which the beads are strung, and even their shape help determine which school a believer belongs to and find out what level of initiation he is at.
How the material affects humans:
- Red sandalwood has a warming effect;
- White sandalwood will help you calm down and overcome temptations;
- Juniper eliminates any negative influence;
- The oak will act as a protector for its owner;
- Lotus seeds will contribute to increasing prosperity;
- Rudraksha seeds will help to endow a person with strength and great energy potential.
If the beads are not made from wood, then what stones are they made from?
- Pearl is a feminine stone. It reveals a person’s creative potential, harmonizes the work of all 7 chakras;
- White agate promotes spiritual growth and increased intelligence;
- Vajrayana followers choose cult items made from the frontal portion of the human skull to enhance psychic abilities.
You can use Buddhist objects just like Christian ones. Only you need to read not prayers, but mantras. Usually believers buy a special bag in which they keep their rosary. They even sort it out in a bag so that foreign energy does not spoil their strength.
If you start reading mantras, then do not quarrel, forget obscene language, do not raise your voice, do not drink alcohol, do not smoke, so as not to “damage” the positive energy.
MoyaZaya.ru » How to make a rosary
Initially, the rosary was used to count prayers and bows, but today it is not only a religious object, and the range of functions of the rosary has expanded significantly. In the classic version, they are made from round beads, but now they are also found in square, oval, and even flat ones.
In fact, it seems to me that all these are conventions, so you need to make rosaries with your own hands as your heart tells you.
Rosary beads are a wonderful gift, especially when they are made with love and with your own hands. They can also be a talisman. In this case, I would recommend making them from natural stones.
This is exactly the kind of rosary we will make for you.
We will need silk thread, stones, clamps, pliers and scissors.
It is advisable to take the thread that is used to stitch shoes, because it is very strong and specially processed. But if such a thread is not available to you, then we simply take a silk thread and treat it with wax.
This will make our thread stronger and more elastic, which, in turn, will extend the life of our product. The fact is that friction against the stones will scratch the thread, and the weaker it is, the more likely it is that the rosary will crumble, so our task is to make the thread as strong as possible.
First we will make a ponytail for our amulet. In fact, you can hang anything you like on a rosary, stones, ropes, bows, figurines, everything you can imagine, but since we are making rosary beads as a talisman, I gave preference to the tail - the whisk, it will ward off everything bad comes from us.
There is no need to wax the threads for the tassel.
So we make a ponytail, wind the thread around 3 fingers or, as I did, around the TV remote control.
Whatever you wrap is not important, the important thing is to get a good tight ring of thread, remove it.
We tie one side and cut the other in half. We have a brush.
Since the ends are uneven, you need to get a haircut and remove all unnecessary things so that the ponytail is perfect.
Let's put our brush aside for a while and take up the stones.
Now we need a waxed thread. We thread it through the stones.
The number of stones depends on your desire, as does the size. I took 40 turquoise stones. That’s how I wanted it, and at such moments you need to listen to yourself.
When all the stones have been threaded, we repeat this again and draw the thread around the second circle.
Ready?
Great! And again, if the holes in the stones allow you to do so. The more circles we walk, the stronger our rosary will be, but it’s not worth more than 3, that’s enough for us.
Don't pull too tight, leave about 1 bead of empty space.
When we have walked all 3 circles and we have 2 threads left, we put 2 clips on them.
Now we put our tassel through there.
We insert the free 2 threads into the clamps again.
And we fix it, this is where pliers will come in handy.
We cut off the excess and a la, our rosary is ready.
Keep them under cold running water and they are ready to protect you.
And know that if the amulet breaks or stones fall from it, it means that it has warded something bad away from you. Thank it, rinse it and put it back together. Handmade rosary will not let you down!
Take care of yourself and your loved ones!
Anna Vanina specially for the site MoyaZaya.ru
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What is the difference between “talkers”
Flip beads or “talkers” are a mandatory attribute that emphasizes a certain image of their owner. The ability to handle them correctly also gives a person a certain authority and status.
Initially, such an attribute was made in places of deprivation of liberty. These were handmade models from the most expensive materials - stones, metal or northern wood.
You need to know how to turn the “talkers”. But knowledge does not come immediately. You need to have a skill that can be practiced over months and even years.
Transfer items are carried only in the hands. The simplest technique looks like this:
- Hold the rosary between the middle and index fingers in the center. You can take it in any hand.
- Next, flip the lower end so that it is at the top. Pinch with your thumb and index finger.
- After this, you should wave the end of the rosary again. There should be a full rotation around your fingers.
- Thus, go around in a circle. The rosary should twist in the same direction. It is important that the ends click during contact.
There are other, more complex practices for handling this item. The more relaxed and easier a person performs all movements, the higher his authority.
Bread rosary
For these rosaries, an unconventional material is used - bread. To prepare them you will need bread, sugar and sleight of hand. It is better to take white bread from second or third grade wheat flour, and only the crumb is used.
There are two ways to make beads for rosaries.
First way. The bread crumb with added sugar is kneaded in your hands. Sugar is added to prevent the beads from cracking. Moreover, the higher the quality of the bread, the more sugar there should be. It takes a long time to knead the crumb, at least an hour. After this, it becomes like plasticine. Some people think that water can be added to make the bread mass more plastic, but this is not true; water will only reduce the strength of the product. When the bread mass becomes plastic and it can be easily molded into various products, you can begin to form round beads. You can make beads of other shapes, and if you add dyes to the bread crumb, you can get colored beads.
Second way. This method allows you to obtain more durable products. Sugar is added to the bread crumb, and then the mixture is brewed with boiling water. The mixture is left in a warm place so that it begins to sour, and then the crumb is rubbed through cheesecloth. The resulting mass should dry a little. At the same time, it must be stirred periodically so that it becomes like plasticine. After this, you can sculpt products from the bread mass. Since the mass is highly durable, the central hole in the rosary beads must be made immediately, before they dry. When stringing rosaries, you need to choose their length individually so that it is approximately the length of your palm.