Description
Ring Prayer Rope
A Prayer Rope or Komboskini is a cord, usually made of black wool thread, knotted together. It serves as a prayer aid for monks, clergy, and lay people of the Orthodox Christian faith.
Each part of the prayer rope holds symbolic meaning. It is mainly made of wool to remind the members of the Church that they are the rational sheep of Jesus Christ (John 10:11). The black color symbolizes mourning for sins, since “no one is without sin” (cf. 1 Kings 8:46, Job 4:17, Romans 3:9-12, etc.). The cross on the prayer rope serves as a reminder that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
Reading spiritual books and attending Church services are beneficial and helpful. However, for those who do not have this opportunity, the prayer rope can sometimes replace other methods. With each knot, the name of the Lord Jesus is invoked, saying the short prayer, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me” or simply, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.”
The authentic Mount Athos prayer rope features 1 turquoise bead. It is crafted in the traditional way and blessed by the monks of Mount Athos.
Diameter: 1 cm
Origin: Mount Athos