Weird Spiritual Practices: What’s Up With The Red String?

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More so in the last few years a lot more people are sporting the red string bracelet on the wrists. I’ve had mine for the last 2 years now on my left wrist, and when it breaks I simply replace it. I even put one on my daughter’s left wrist, and given them to friends and loved ones hoping to express love, wishes of good luck, and protection. As a Reiki Master and practicing Buddhist, I get asked a lot of different questions about them. Most people look at it and believe there’s no way it could be anything spiritual.

After all, it’s just a red string!  So I decided to write this post to discuss the most common questions with answers.

SEE ALSO: The Origin Of Prayer Wheels

Background on the Little Red String

Generally, the red string bracelet is worn by practitioners of 4 different faiths: Hinduism, Kabbalah, Buddhism and Christianity. It can be worn on either wrist and is usually made of wool; it can even have knots tied into it. Red has been a color used since ancient times, and is a symbol of blood, protection, is used in the work with the Evil Eye, its been painted on the human body before battle, even painted on doors of homes for protection. Red has had a long-standing tradition in human history for many things, more so defined by the attachments that the culture puts on them. In energy work, this bracelet can become a talisman and charged with energies that are to protect the wearer. It is believed that the left side of the body is the receiving side, so wearing it on the left side allows the receiving of good fortunes and luck to come to you.

Red Bracelet Meaning

Hinduism

In Hinduism, they are called “kalava”, and they are generally worn on the right wrist by men and left wrist by woman. In Hinduism, red is a symbol of purity, the color of divine, bravery and generosity. It is given in the temple’s at ceremonies and punjab’s. It shows unity in the faith of Hinduism and the community.

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Buddhism

In Buddhism, the color red is a symbol of life force, compassion, and rules the tongue. Wearing the red string in Buddhism is a reminder to the wearer to show compassion to all and mind the tongue; for the tongue can cut deeper than the sword.

Christianity

In Christianity, Genesis: 38 mentions the red string to “worn off misfortunes”. It is also generally worn on the left wrist. In Christianity, red is a symbol of fire, blood, and Pentecost. It also became the color of the martyred saints.

Kabbalah

Kabbalah is the Jewish mystical interpenetration of the bible. It originated from Rachel’s tomb and is only worn on the left wrist. In the Kabbalah it’s believed it removes unwanted energy to make room for wanted energy.

Conclusion

No matter what wrist you wear it on or how you view the symbolism of wearing the string, it can make a great addition to your faith- and remind you of the importance of who you are and what you stand for.