While used in many other religions – Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity – prayer beads in Islam are known by different names – misbaha, sub’ha, dhikr beads, tasbih or tasbeeha. They come in different shapes, sizes and textures, and usually have 33 round beads separated by flat or bigger beads into three groups of 11. There’s often a large leader bead and a tassel at one end to mark the start point of recitations.
The worshipper touches one bead at a time reciting words of dhikr (remembrance of Allah). These recitations can be the 99 names of Allah or phrases that praise God. The phrases often repeated include: Subhan Allah (Glory to Allah) 33 times; Alhamdulillah (Praise to Allah) 33 times; and Allahu Akbar (Allah is greatest) 33 times.
During the Prophet’s time, people used their hands to recite the phrases and this practice is still common today. Pebbles were also used to count prayers.
Wood
Often carved with tiny geometric or floral designs, wood is symbolic of humbleness and simplicity. Light to carry, they’re often used when travelling. Some people dip wooden prayer beads in the holy water of Zamzam, from a well in Mecca, during their pilgrimage.
Coral
One of the unique aspects of precious coral is its durability and captivating red colour, which makes it popular for jewellery as well as prayer beads.
Amethyst
The ancient Greeks believed that the violet verity of quartz protected people from intoxication.
Aqeeq (carnelian agate)
It’s said that the Prophet Mohammed used to wear a ring made from this reddish-brown stone with “Mohammed Prophet of Allah” carved on the surface, which he used as his personal seal when stamping documents.
Gold
Often decorated with diamonds, prayer beads made from gold are a fashion and status symbol and a sign of the modern times.
Black onyx
A black chalcedony quartz with a fine texture, this is a stone of reverence and strength. Prayer beads with this stone are often custom-made with the name of the owner of the beads sealed onto it using delicate traces of mother of pearl. Known as the stone of self-mastery, it’s often given to the elderly as a sign of respect and well wishes.
Lapis lazuli
The deep celestial blue stone has an old past filled with legends of magic, power, wisdom and truth. Worn by ancient royals, it’s considered one of the more valuable prayer beads because of its natural beauty. It’s thought to inspire thankfulness and a reflection over the great beauty of nature.
Fayrouz (turquoise)
The distinctive blue-green stone is believed in popular culture to ward off the evil eye and negative energy brought about by hasad (envy). It’s thought this belief began in pre-Islamic times when the stone was used in talisman and amulets against evil. While scholars have frowned on this habit, many Muslims still seek out prayer beads made of fayrouz and carry them with them as protection against the evil eye.
Pearl
Beloved for their “pure” beauty, pearls are a popular choice for prayer beads, particularly with female worshippers. Believed to tap into feminine energy, holding a set of pearl prayer beads is supposed to bring about admiration and gratefulness for God’s creations and sense of harmony in meditation.
Amber
Although it may look like stone, amber is actually fossilised resin, and comes in different shades of yellow, brown, orange and white. It’s said to remove negative energy and reduce inflammation. Its earthy colours are soothing, making it a popular material for prayer beads.