Buddhist prayer beads are portable instruments used in Buddhism for counting recitations. Originally called "mala beads," they originated from the practice of chanting the names of the Three Jewels of Buddhism—Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—to eliminate afflictions and obstacles. Wearing them on the hand helps people remain calm and composed when faced with troubles and noise, seeking peace and lasting happiness, while constantly reminding themselves to cherish all living beings. Buddhist prayer beads are typically divided into three types: those for holding, wearing, and hanging. As Buddhism spread, prayer beads were endowed with new meanings and regarded as Feng Shui amulets for protection and health. In modern society, regardless of whether one practices Buddhism, people enjoy wearing prayer beads for their Feng Shui benefits of warding off evil and ensuring safety, with many never leaving home without a string of prayer beads.
It is customary to wear consecrated Buddhist prayer beads on the left hand because the right hand is used for tasks and the left hand is used less frequently, making the beads less prone to wear and damage when worn on the left. Additionally, the left hand is referred to as the "hand of good deeds" or the "hand of compassion," hence the beads are worn on the left hand. Moreover, in ancient times, the left side was considered the auspicious direction in Feng Shui. Therefore, the left side was seen as the favorable side, and people would choose to wear accessories on their left hand. There is also the saying that men should wear beads on the left hand and women on the right hand, which is based on the perspective of energy channels, making it better for men to wear on the left and women on the right.
When wearing Buddhist prayer beads, one should maintain a sincere heart and a focus on goodness. Do not wear prayer beads while bathing, as they are sacred objects, especially those that have been consecrated and possess spiritual energy. Getting them wet with dirty water will contaminate and diminish their spiritual essence. If you need to temporarily remove the prayer beads from your wrist, do not place them in your pants pocket. Instead, wrap them carefully and place them in a shirt pocket, preferably the breast pocket, to show respect.
Avoid wearing prayer beads when touching onions, garlic, leeks, or when drinking alcohol, and never blow smoke onto the beads. When not in use, do not place them under books or other objects, nor in untidy areas. They should be wrapped and placed in a safe and clean location. For fragrant prayer beads, such as agarwood or sandalwood beads, when not wearing them, do not store them with other scented items. Keep them in a separate, sealed bag to preserve their fragrance and prevent it from mixing with other scents.
Regularly handling or using the prayer beads helps develop a patina, which is the best protective layer for the beads and enhances their spiritual essence.
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