Nichikan Shonin, 26th High Priest of NIchiren Shoshu wrote in his treatise,
“The Prayer Beads are the Buddhist implement that helps common mortals advance in their Buddhist Practice. “

In Nichiren Shoshu, our prayer beads consist of two long strands joined at either end with two large beads. Haging from the outside of these large beads are two shorter strands on one side, and three on the other, They are strung with white braided cords with white pompom tassels at the end. These sets of two and three strands are equidistant and opposite from each other. The two large beads are called the father and mother beads. Both of them represent the Buddha.

When we use the beads, we twist them over once, forming a figure eight. The end of the figure eight with the three strands is placed over the middle finger of the right hand and the end with the two strands over the middle finger of the left. The short strands lie on the outside of the hands which are placed together with palms and fingers touching.

The number of beads is 108, which represent earthly desires possessed by human beings. There are also four smaller beads. These represent the four leaders of the Bodhisattvas of the Earth and also indicate the four virtues of the Buddha’s life, which are Eternity, Happiness, True Self, and Purity.

When we hold the beads, we can obtain the great benefit of transforming earthly desires into enlightenment. Because of their profound significance, you should treat your prayer beads with respect, just as you would the Buddha. To understand the meaning of the beads is to begin to understand the profundity of Buddhism, the correct practice, and the reason for expressing gratitude to the Three Great Secret Laws and the Three Treasures.

The beads should not be rubbed together but held quietly between our palms when facing the Gohonzon. It is said that when we hold the beads on our fingers and enclose them between the palms of our hands, we can obtain the great benefit of transforming earthly desires into enlightenment.

If you choose to purchase Nichiren Shoshu beads online, please be sure that the prayer beads receive the “Eye Opening” ceremony which is performed by the Chief Priest of Nichiren Shoshu Temple where you belong to. Juzu beads are available at Myogyoji Temple. Let’s hold the prayer Beads correctly and chant sincere Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.