Mysterious Origin

The dZI
dZI (pronounced Zee) is a bead stone of mysterious origin worn with a necklace and sometimes bracelet. Collectively in almost all Asian cultures, the bead is expected to provide positive spiritual benefit. They are generally prized as protective amulets. Dzi stones may have made their first appearance between 2000 BC to 1000 BC, in ancient India. Fear of the “Evil eye” was taken very seriously by these people, so they created talismans with “eyes” on them as a “fight fire with fire” form of protection.

The meaning of the word "dZi" translates to "shine, brightness, clearness, splendor". In Traditional Chinese, the bead is called "heaven's bead" or "heaven's pearl". Such beads were etched black-and-white or brown-and-white, with symbols comprised of circles, ovals, square, waves stripes, lines and various other symbolic patterns.

To the Tibetans, each of these symbols represents a specific meaning. They are precious possession to the Tibetan, with so many fascinating stories of its mystical power attributed to it. dZi beads play an important role in Tibetan culture. Tibetans believe dZi beads to possess the power to bring about good influence associated with protection, prosperity, attracting wealth, fostering good health and ward against evil. These beads were etched dating back a few thousand years ago.

While the origin surrounding Dzi beads are quite uncertain, it is socially accepted today that they are called "Tibetan beads". They are found primarily in Tibet, but also in neighbouring Bhutan, Ladakh and Sikkim. Shepherds and farmers pick them up in the grasslands or while cultivating fields. Because dZi are found in the earth, Tibetans cannot conceive of them as man-made. Since knowledge of the bead is derived from oral traditions, few beads have provoked more controversy concerning their source, method of manufacture and even precise definition. In Tibetan culture they are believed to attract protector deities.

Two Eyes Bead
Ying-Yang speaks of the important of balance and harmony. The symbol of two eyes represents Generation and Completion. As there are two sides to a coin, and various views to a situation, two eye bead remind us of the importance of balance which bring about harmony. There is seldom a situation, which is absolutely good/bad or right/wrong. It takes effort to built harmony among people, and the reward can be great. In particular, salesman and negotiators will find a two eyes bead meaningful. Balanced views, harmony, cooperation, peaceful settlement are what the symbol of two eyes represents.

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I'm a proud owner of a genuine 'two eyes' piece of dZI given to me as a gift from a monk 'friend'. Have forgotten about it until recently. Had it many years back, maybe 10 years or so. Now it's safely hung around my neck for good (from September 1 2007) to bring the charm back in me after so long! Its not too late still. May it brings balance, harmony and put it's magical power to play.