» Russian chotki & greek komboskini prayer ropes (orthodox)

Prayer ropes are used to help greek-orthodox christians say the "Jesus Prayer". In russian they are called "chotki", while in greek they are called "komboskini". Our prayer ropes are hand made from black wool, counting from 33, 100 to even 300 knots. The 33 knot model is actually a wrist bracelet. The other models, such as the one of 100 knots, have four divider beads, and feature a wool knotted cross and a tassel. We mainly wholesale, please contact us for prices and how you can buy some.

» Made from wool knots using four divider beads

We consider that it's very important not to step aside from the traditional method of prayer rope tying, as well as keeping their look and feel as close as possible to the old, orthodox monastic models. So even though some of the modern chotki & komboskini prayer ropes are made from beads instead of knots, come in various colors and are made from synthetic materials, we still prefer to make ours from black wool and tie them in the same manner our desert fathers used to tye them. Without a doubt, the true value of our handcrafts stands in the fact that we strive to create authentic, traditional products.

Please take a look at our prayer ropes...

» Eastern orthodox christian symbolism

There is actually a symbol for all elements and characteristics of a prayer rope, starting with the knots, which are constructed from seven little crosses. The wool is a reminder that we are rational sheep of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ the Lord, and also a reminder of the Lamb of God Who takes away the sins of the world. Its color, black, is the color of mourning and sorrow. The cross likewise speaks to us of the sacrifice and victory of the life over death, of humility over pride, of self-sacrifice over selfishness, of light over darkness. And the tassel? To remind us the tears of repentance.

The method of tying prayer ropes had its origins from the Father of Orthodox Monasticism, Saint Anthony the Great. He started by tying a leather rope with a simple knot for every time he prayed Kyrie Eleison ("Lord have Mercy"), but the devil would come and untie the knots to throw off his count. He then devised a way - inspired by a vision he had of the Theotokos - of tying the knots so that the knots themselves would constantly make the sign of the cross. Each knot contains seven little crosses being tied over and over. The devil could not untie it because the devil is vanquished by the Sign of the Cross.

» Wholesales

We mainly wholesale our prayer ropes to orthodox chuch shops that would like to resell them. In order to receive our wholesale pricing, please contact us. Samples are available by request. More information on our reseller discounts page.