Worry beads

Kombológia of different materials

Komboloi is a Greek fidget toy, used to relieve stress and generally pass time. The modern Greek word Komboloi (κομπολόι) word is derived from kombologion ("κομβολόγιον"), which is formed from the Greek words "kombos" (κόμβος) which means "knot" and "logos" (λόγος) which means "word" or, figuratively, "way of expressiion."

History

Komboloi worry beads are related to the Eastern Orthodox Komboskoini, the Catholic Rosary, the Buddhist and Hindu Mala as well as the Islamic Tesbih. Unlike its non-secular peers, however, the Komboloi bears absolutely no religious significance. It is merely an instrument of relaxation and stress management.

Kombolois are constructed from any type of bead, although amber, amber resin (such as Faturan) and coral are preferred, as they are thought to be more pleasant to handle than non-organic materials such as metal or minerals. Greek Kombolois generally have an odd number of beads and may or may not sport a tassel.

Atlthough the origin of the Greek Komboloi is debated, its closest relatives are the Komboskoini used by Orthodox Monks as well as the Islamic Tesbih. Template:Toys-stub