Tianzhu: A Comprehensive Analysis of Mysterious Tibetan Sacred Artifacts
1、 Basic Introduction to Tianzhu
Tianzhu, called “dzi” (pronounced “zee”) in Tibetan, is a kind of bead with special religious and cultural significance, which is mainly spread in the Tibetan Buddhist cultural circle, including Xizang, Nepal, Bhutan, northern India and Mongolia. Tianzhu is considered a sacred object with powerful spiritual power, serving as both a talisman and a symbol of wealth and status.
Tianzhu is usually cylindrical or tubular in shape, with unique mysterious patterns such as eye patterns, stripes, and wavy patterns on its surface. Its materials are diverse, including agate, chalcedony, glass, fossils, etc., but the most precious Tianzhu is believed to be made of naturally formed “nine eyed shale” or agate blessed with special religious rituals.
2、 The Material and Classification of Tianzhu
The main material of Tianzhu
Zhichun Tianzhu (Old Tianzhu): Made from natural nine eyed shale or patterned on agate using ancient techniques such as etching, and blessed by a high monk. This type of Tianzhu is the most precious and rare in existence.
New Tianzhu (Modern Tianzhu): It is replicated using modern techniques and is mostly made of agate, chalcedony, or glass. Some parts have been artificially dyed or laser carved, and do not have religious blessing energy.
Glazed Tianzhu: Some Tianzhu are made of ancient glass and are colorful, often found as offerings in Tibetan Buddhist temples.
Fossil Tianzhu: A very small number of Tianzhu are made from ancient biological fossils (such as snail fossils) and are believed to possess special spiritual power.
Classification of patterns on Tianzhu
The patterns of Tianzhu are diverse, and different decorations represent different religious meanings:
One glance at the Tianzhu: symbolizing wisdom and unique truth.
Three eyed Tianzhu: represents the three treasures of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, or the harmony of the three realms of heaven, earth, and humanity.
Six eyed Tianzhu: symbolizes the liberation of the six cycles of reincarnation.
Nine eyed Tianzhu: The most prestigious Tianzhu, representing the energy of the universe and the supreme achievement of Buddhism.
Tiger patterned Tianzhu: symbolizes bravery and fearlessness, and has the function of warding off evil spirits.
Lotus Tianzhu: represents purity and enlightenment.
Aquarius Tianzhu: symbolizes wealth and longevity.
The History and Legend of Tianzhu
Origin of Tianzhu
There are various theories about the origin of Tianzhu, mainly including the following legends:
According to Tibetan Buddhism, Tianzhu is believed to be the incarnation of various Buddhas and Bodhisattvas or a treasure bestowed upon humanity by the gods, possessing the power to protect and bless sentient beings.
Fuzang said: Some Tianzhu are believed to be sacred relics buried by the Lotus Buddha (an important master of Tibetan Buddhism) in Fuzang, waiting for someone to discover them.
Meteorite theory: Some scholars believe that Tianzhu may have been formed by meteorites or special minerals, possessing cosmic energy.
The ancient Zhang Xiong civilization said that the ancient Zhang Xiong Dynasty (4th century BC) in Xizang has been recorded as a celestial pearl, which may be derived from the Bon religion.
The Position of Tianzhu in Tibetan Buddhism
Talisman: Tibetan people believe that celestial beads can ward off evil, prevent disasters, and ensure peace.
Wealth symbol: Tianzhu is a precious property of Tibetan nobles and living Buddhas, and a pure Tianzhu is priceless.
Cultivation tool: Eminent monks and great virtues often wear celestial beads to enhance meditation and wisdom.
4、 Tianzhu’s products and market
- Traditional Tianzhu
Zhi Chun Lao Tianzhu: Very rare in existence, mostly collected by temples or passed down by families, rare in the market, with prices reaching millions or even tens of millions of yuan.
Tianzhu from the Ming and Qing Dynasties: Some old beads that were passed down among the people still have high collection value.
- Modern Tianzhu
Taiwan Tianzhu: After the 1980s, Taiwanese craftsmen began to imitate Tianzhu using agate dyeing technology, which resulted in relatively low prices.
Nepalese Tianzhu: Antique Tianzhu made by Nepalese craftsmen, some of which have been blessed by religion and have a certain market recognition.
Machine carved Tianzhu: a modern industrial product with low cost and no religious significance.
5、 The significance of Tianzhu in metaphysics and energetics
- The Spiritual Function of Tianzhu
Deviating and blocking evil spirits: Tibetan people believe that celestial beads can block evil spirits, misfortune, and black magic.
Enhance Qi Field: Wearing Tianzhu can enhance personal energy field, making people more confident and healthy.
Attracting wealth and blessings: Nine eyed Tianzhu is particularly believed to bring wealth and career success.
Promoting cultivation: Practitioners wearing celestial beads can enhance concentration and reduce distractions.
- Tianzhu corresponds to chakras
In energetics, Tianzhu is believed to activate multiple chakras:
Top Wheel (Seventh Chakra): Enhance spiritual consciousness.
Eyebrow chakra (sixth chakra): enhances intuition and wisdom.
Heart chakra (fourth chakra): promotes compassion and peace.
- The Feng Shui Function of Tianzhu
Zhenzhai: Placing Tianzhu in the financial position or front door of the home can stabilize the energy of the house.
Recruiting benefactors: Wearing Tianzhu can enhance social connections and attract benefactors to help.
Resolving Tai Sui: Some Tibetan people wear celestial beads in Tai Sui year to resolve unfavorable luck.
6、 Conclusion
Tianzhu is not only a sacred object in Tibetan Buddhism, but also a mysterious carrier that connects the energy of heaven and earth. Whether as talismans, collectibles, or tools for spiritual practice, Tianzhu carries profound cultural heritage and spiritual significance. In today’s society, the value of Tianzhu is not only reflected in its market price, but also in the spiritual beliefs and cultural heritage it represents. For those who truly love Tianzhu, a genuine Tianzhu is not only wealth, but also a witness to faith and practice.