Islamic Prayer Beads
Islamic prayer beads are commonly known as “tasbih” and originated from the word “supha”, which means to recite the glories of Allah. Tesbih has 99 beads which represent 99 names of God in Islam. It is highly recommended to recite this prayer after the 5 ritual prayers.
Sometimes only 33 beads are used and in this case, one would cycle through them three times to complete the 99. The beads are originally a gift of Muhammad to his daughter Fatima and are then called Tasbih of Fatima. It is originally used to keep track of the prayer starting with 34 times “Allahu Akbar” (God is the greatest), 33 times “Al-hamdu lilah” (Praise be to God), and 33 times “Subhan Allah” (Glory be to God).
What Are Prayer Beads Made Of
Because of its origin in the Middle East, Islamic prayer beads were then made out of date stones, a staple in that place at that time. But prayer beads from the Ottoman times when rock crystal beads with silver tassel at the end are favored. And now Islamic prayer beads come in different materials and stones, some made of wood, various stones, olive seeds, amber, and pearls of plastic.
Tasbih made of wood are primarily using the rose tree, ebony, rosewood, and olive tree. Tasbih made of fragrant wood are being stored in close boxes to maintain its fragrance. Tasbih of today has been made out of gemstones, and almost all kinds of beads making it a more accepted piece as a status symbol.
Islamic Prayer Beads Formal Procedure
Because of its sanctity and purpose, can ordinary artisan make Islamic prayer beads? Just like “halal” in food, is there a certain way of making or blessing it to pass the Muslim tradition? These might be some of the questions that will pop out of your head to fully understand the meaning of Islamic prayer beads making.
There are no pre-determined rules that only Muslims can make Islamic prayer beads, these prayer beads are considered only a tool and have no worship significance for Muslims. Therefore, artisan of different faith and background can create this wonderful means for prayer.
However, there is a certain Muslim belief not to use “haraam” or use of animal product. And horns of animals can be formed as beads, so just be careful about that. In any faith and tradition, it is always good to do some research especially when there are culture and belief involved.
How To Make Islamic Prayer Beads
Prepare 100 beads of the same color and shape. You can actually choose 3 different colors for the three different sections of the prayer beads. String the first 33 beads followed by the other 2 sets of 33 beads. The extra bead is the leader bed that will be placed at the end of the string together with the tassel.
Make sure not to tighten up a bit when tying the string so as not to make it very taut that it’s no longer bendable. Making Islamic prayer beads can be that easy, you just have to know your pieces and procedures when making one. So just grab those beads, remember no “haraam” products, and you’re on your way to Islamic prayer beads making.
