Geheimnis des Rosenkranzes

Prayers that are repeated and counted using small stones, grains, or beads are found in many world religions, not just Christianity. The prayer beads are particularly common in India, where they have been documented since the 1st century AD. In Hinduism and Buddhism, prayer beads are known, and in Islam, they have been in use since the 9th century AD. The rosary used in Christianity consists of six large beads and 53 small beads, arranged on a chain or string, with a cross. The rosary traces back to the Paternoster beads from the 13th century and is used for counting prayers. During the praying of the rosary, a transition is continually created from oral to contemplative prayer. Romano Guardini (1885-1968) writes: "This prayer means dwelling in a sphere of life of Mary, whose content is Jesus Christ." This book aims to contribute to that. After providing a historical overview and a clear explanation of the specific method of praying the rosary, Peter Dyckhoff explains the individual mysteries of the rosary with comments that seek to deepen both the depicted image in the prayer and the faith.