What is prayer rope?

A prayer rope, also known as a chotki or komboskini, is a tool used in Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Christian prayer. It is typically made of knotted ropes or beads and is used for counting prayers and aiding in concentration during prayer.

The prayer rope is usually made up of a specific number of knots or beads, such as 33, 50, or 100, representing traditional prayers or verses that are repeated while using the rope. It is often used in conjunction with the Jesus Prayer, a simple prayer that is repeated over and over: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

Using a prayer rope can help the practitioner focus on their prayers and cultivate a sense of calm and contemplation. It is also believed to be a physical symbol of the spiritual connection between the person praying and God.

In addition to individual prayer, prayer ropes are often used in monastic communities as a way to keep track of the many prayers that monks are required to say each day. They can be worn on the wrist or tied around the waist for easy access during daily prayers.

Overall, the prayer rope is a tool that can be used to enhance one's prayer life and deepen their spiritual practice.