what is bodhi beads?

Bodhi beads usually refer to the beads made from the seeds or kernels of the Bodhi tree ( in a narrow sense, referring to the Pippala tree of the Moraceae family; in a broader sense, referring to various plants).In Buddhist culture, it is a vital ritual implement, used by practitioners to recite Buddhist mantras and count recitations. It is representing wisdom, peace, and spiritual practice.

• Several common types of Bodhi beads include:

• Star and Moon Bodhi: This is the most popular type. It is made from the seeds of rattan, and each bead has a large hole (moon) in the center, surrounded by many black dots (stars), symbolizing "the moon surrounded by stars", which means good fortune and harmony.

• Vajra Bodhi: Made from the kernel of the round fruit Elaeocarpus, its surface is uneven and has complex patterns, symbolizing the hardness and power of Vajra, and implying indestructibility and the ability to subdue demons.

• Phoenix Eye Bodhi: The round fruit of the Elaeocarpus decipiens, which originates from Nepal, has a pattern on each bead that resembles an eye, resembling a phoenix eye, symbolizing wisdom and insight into the world.

• Dragon Eye Bodhi: A variant of Phoenix Eye Bodhi, its patterns resemble eyes, with triangular or quadrangular ridges, symbolizing the power of the dragon and signifying good fortune and nobility.

• White jade bodhi: It is not a seed, but the white inner core left after the outer shell of the fruit of a plant is removed. Its texture is as white as jade, symbolizing purity and flawlessness, and increasing blessings and wisdom.

• Thousand-Eyed Bodhi: The fruit of a palm tree with many natural spots on its surface, resembling countless eyes, symbolizing seeing the world clearly and understanding everything.