1.
Buddhist prayer beads
A string of beads used for counting prayers or mantras in Buddhist practice. Also used at funerals and memorial services.
葬儀には数珠を持参した。
I brought prayer beads to the funeral.
祖母は毎日数珠を手にお経を唱えていた。
My grandmother used to chant sutras every day with prayer beads in hand.
法事に行くので数珠を用意した。
I prepared prayer beads since I'm going to a memorial service.
CULTURAL CONTEXT: 数珠 are essential items for Buddhist ceremonies in Japan, including funerals (葬儀/告別式), memorial services (法事), and visits to graves (墓参り).
TYPES:
- 本式数珠: formal type with 108 beads
- 略式数珠: simplified type (more common)
- Varies by Buddhist sect
NUMBER SIGNIFICANCE:
- Traditional: 108 beads representing 108 worldly desires (煩悩)
- Simplified versions may have 27, 36, or 54 beads
ETIQUETTE:
- Hold in left hand or wrap around both hands during prayer
- Should not be placed on the floor
- Often kept in a small pouch (数珠袋)
RELATED VOCABULARY:
- 念珠: alternative formal term
- 数珠つなぎ: strung together like beads (idiom)
ALTERNATE READING: Also read as ずず in some contexts.