Scientific research in the US has proved the benefits of carrying prayer beads -they alleviate anxiety, stress and normalize blood pressure.
Prayer beads or prayer rope which have recently become a common accessory for men, were first made in the 8th century BC. People never let them out of their hands using them to forget sadness, hopelessness or simply pass the time.
Various sources claim that prayer beads have been used for nearly 2800 years. Historical records say that prayer beads were first used in worship services in 800 BC by Hindu Brahmin priests. In the past, prayer beads used to be made from certain animal parts lined on a rope. The number of beads varies in different religions but there are usually 33 or 99 pieces.
IT IS NOT ONLY AN INSTRUMENT OF WORSHIP
Prayer rope is not just an instrument of worship, it is also used as a means of recreation and amusement.
During the Ottoman period production of prayer beads was considered a kind of art, beginning in the 17th century and according to some sources reaching its peak in the 19th century. In the past, the beautiful beads made in Istanbul were exported to Mecca and Medina in times of pilgrimage. The same sources say that the art of creating beads was also very much developed in Samarkand (Uzbekistan) and Iran.
It should be noted that in Istanbul of the late 19th century, Kapalicarsi (the Grand Bazaar) had more than 300 stalls (shops) that used to sell beads.
PRAYER BEADS AND TURKS
According to beads manufacturers, Turks do not give up old habits easily, also there has been an increased interest in prayer beads recently, especially among women. Statistics shows that 70-75% of Turkish population use beads which have literally become an integral part of their lives. Generally speaking every man in Turkey has prayer beads. They are also referred to as “chewing gum for the hands”.
They are made of bone, stone, ebony, snakewood, rosewood, ivory, rhino horn, camel bone, pearl, amber, turquoise (blue stone), gold, silver, various wood and stones and even diamonds. According to manufacturers people prefer prayer beads made of expensive materials and precious gemstones.
CARNELIAN BRINGS PEACE AND TRANQUILITY, AMBER MAKES BREATHING EASIER
Experts claim that beads made of carnelian provide peace and tranquility, relax and alleviate anxiety. Amber beads protect people from evil eyes, they are a cure for insomnia, collect energy from the body and make breathing easier.
Some people’s constant use of prayer beads turns a habit into an addiction, others on the other hand, use them simply as a fashionable accessory. Also, it can be a keepsake from a parent or a close friend. Some religious sects consider prayer beads as a stairway to God.
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