The prayer beads are the Buddhist implement that helps common mortals advance in their Buddhist practice.
Nichikan Shonin (1655 – 1726), the 26th High Priest of Nichiren Shoshu
Nichiren Shoshu Buddhist prayer beads consist of two long strands joined at either end with two large beads. Hanging 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. For an illustration of the prayer beads, click here.
In Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism, the prayer beads receive the “Opening of the Eyes” ceremony which is performed by the Chief Priest. If you choose to purchase beads online, verify that the prayer beads match the description of the prayer beads described above, specifically white cords and tassels. You can then request the Opening of the Eyes ceremony at the Temple.
For more information and details on the Juzu beads, read pp. 48-53 in the book, Nichiren Shoshu Basics of Practice.
