The meaning of Tibetan Buddhist bracelets
Share
Tibetan Buddhist bracelets (also called "Buddha beads" or "rosary beads") have important religious and spiritual significance in Tibetan Buddhism and are often used for chanting, prayer and meditation.
1. The composition and number of beads
- Tibetan Buddhist bracelets are usually made up of 108 beads, a number that has a profound religious meaning. 108 represents the elimination of 108 kinds of troubles and helps practitioners reach the state of enlightenment. - Some bracelets may also use 21 or 27 beads for specific short-term practices or prayers.
2. Used for chanting and praying
- Tibetan Buddhist bracelets are usually used when chanting Buddhist scriptures or mantras. Each time a scripture or mantra is chanted, a bead is moved. Common mantras include the "Six-Character Great Bright Mantra" ( Om Mani Padme Hum), which is used to pray for compassion and wisdom.
- Helps with concentration: Rosary beads help practitioners focus on chanting or meditation and avoid distractions.
- A tool for practice: Rosary beads are not only a tool in religious rituals, but also a reminder to help practitioners maintain mindfulness and compassion at all times.
3. The symbolic meaning of materials
Tibetan Buddhist bracelets can be made from different materials, each with its own symbolic meaning:
- Bodhi seeds: symbolize awakening and enlightenment, representing the Buddha's awakening under the Bodhi tree.
- Red Coral: Represents protection and strength, often used to ward off negative energy.
- Turquoise: Symbolizes health, longevity and prosperity.
- Crystals: Often used to purify and enhance spiritual energy.
4. A symbol of Buddhist practice
- Tibetan Buddhist bracelets are not just a kind of ornament, but also a connection between practitioners and the Dharma. The wearer keeps in touch with the Dharma through the bracelet and reminds himself of the path of practice.
5. Merit and blessings
- Tibetan Buddhists believe that bracelets will be endowed with special merits and energy through long-term use and chanting. Prayers are regarded as carriers of Buddhist teachings, which can bring blessings and protection to the wearer.
6. Rotation and left-hand wear
- In Tibetan Buddhism, bracelets are usually worn on the left hand, because the left hand symbolizes the power of receiving the Dharma. When used, the beads are usually turned clockwise, which is consistent with the clockwise direction of Tibetan Buddhism when circling the pagoda and turning the prayer wheel.