Misbaha
We continue our Praying with Beads series and look at the Islamic tradition of Tasbih, or Dhikr, using the chain of beads called Misbaha.
The Tradition
This history of using memorization and devotional aids goes back to the time of Mohammed.[1] As in other religious traditions, the beads are a tool for counting prayers or praises so that the person reciting the prayers can focus on the prayer itself and be assured that the count is being kept by moving the beads between the fingers. (In the case of the Muslim tradition, praying with the right hand is preferred to using the left.)
The Prayer
Dhikr (literally translates to “Remember Allah”) is a form of Islamic worship typically observed by Sufi orders. Tasbih is a type of dhikr that glorifies God. The Misbaha is a string of beads to keep track of the Tasbih prayers. The number of beads is 33 or 99, but can be more. As a string of 99 beads, a shaab or marker bead distinguishes when the person praying has reached the 33rd bead. At this point, the praise words may change for the next 33.
In reciting the praises of Allah (God), the believer might recite three different praises of God in three different ways. The believer will recite three different sayings 33 or 99 times.
For example, in Tasbih of Fatimah, the order of prayer devotions may go as follows:
- “Subhanallah” (Glory be to God) 33 times
- “Alhamdulillan” (All praises be to God) 33 times, and
- “Allahu Akbar” (God is the Greatest) 33 times.
How to Pray Using Beads
An alternative devotion is to recite the 99 names of Allah (God) on the 99 beads or one name on the 99 beads 99 times.
The 100th devotion is recited when the seeker returns to the beginning of the bead chain. Here is a tassel or a larger bead called the Midhana bead. Due to its size and shape, it is easily distinguished from the end bead. Thus, the believer feels the bead and recites the concluding prayer. [1] On this final bead, the believer recites in Arabic, “There is no God but God, he lives, he gives life, he does not die, he has power over all things.”[2]
Cultural Significance
Prayer beads can be made of various materials. They can be made from simple material, such as plastic or seeds. They can also be ornate, made from precious stones and garnished with artwork. The string of prayer beads is sometimes worn. They might also be held as a precious inheritance, handed down from generation to generation.
Spiritual Significance
The repeated recitation of Allah’s praises using Islamic prayer beads holds profound spiritual significance. It is much more than a simple devotional act. It goes beyond mere repetition; it is an act of devotion, purification of the soul, and a quest for closeness to the Divine. This practice instills patience, concentration, and tranquility, strengthening the seeker’s faith. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims will become even more dedicated to the beads as a tool for prayer and devotion.[3]
Praying with beads is more than a devotional act of repetitive prayer. It is a significant part of the believer’s journey toward more profound spirituality and connection with the Divine.
[1] Ally, Dr. Shabir, “How are Prayer Beads used by Muslims?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmc-RC4cJlM [Video viewed 11.29.2024]
[2] Allly, Ibid., [Accessed 11.29.2024]
[3] For more information on Ramadan see https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ramadan