Brojanica – The Serbian Orthodox prayer ribbon with deep meaning

The Brojanica is a silent, powerful symbol of the Orthodox faith. For centuries, it has helped believers internalize the Jesus Prayer in their daily lives – knot by knot. It holds a firm place in the Serbian Orthodox Church: as a tool of prayer, a symbol of protection, and a reminder of God's nearness.

What is a Brojanica?

The brojanica (brojanica) is a traditional, hand-knotted prayer tassel. It is made of wool or yarn and features 33 or 100 knots—each knot representing a prayer. Originally from monasteries, it symbolizes concentration, humility, and constant spiritual focus on Christ.

The 33-knot version commemorates the years of Jesus Christ's life on earth. The 100-knot version is often used during more intense times of prayer, such as the Great Lent.

The Jesus Prayer – Prayer with every knot

The Brojanica is traditionally used to recite the Jesus Prayer – one of the deepest and oldest prayers of the Orthodox Church.

Господе Исусе Христе, Сине Божији, помилуј ме грешнога.
Gospode Isuse Hriste, Sine Božiji, pomiluj me grešnoga.
(Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.)

For women, the ending is "grešnu." The prayer is repeated internally with each knot, often in time with the breath. It is a prayer of the heart that leads to inner peace, humility, and a constant connection with Christ. Shorter forms such as "Gospode pomiluj" or "Isuse Christe, pomiluj me" are also frequently used in everyday life.

How is the Brojanica worn?

Traditionally, the brojanica is worn on the left wrist—close to the heart. Some keep it in a pocket, in the car, at a prayer corner, or near icons. Respectful handling is crucial. The brojanica is not a fashionable piece of jewelry, but a spiritual tool.

When do you give a Brojanica as a gift?

A brojanica is an excellent gift for special spiritual occasions such as baptisms, name days, confirmation (Mirovanje), Slava, or preparation for confession. It is also a meaningful symbol for the birth of a child or for personal spiritual renewal. In the Serbian Orthodox diaspora, it is also a valuable expression of connection to homeland, church, and tradition.

Our Brojanica selection – Handmade in Serbia

Svetazvezda offers a diverse selection of brojanice, made according to monastic traditions in Serbia. You'll find all varieties in one category.

This includes:

Brojanica pletena
Robust, classic design with 33 or 100 knots
Available in several colors such as black, red and other traditional shades

Brojanica tank
Simple and elegant – ideal for school, everyday life or discreet wear
In colors like black, dark blue, gray, burgundy and white

Brojanica for babies
Delicate and softly crafted – a symbolic gift for baptism or birth

You can find all models here:
To the Brojanica category in the shop

Each brojanica in our range is crafted in Serbia with great care and respect for its spiritual significance. It combines centuries-old monastic tradition with the spirituality of contemporary Orthodox life.

Carry your prayer – knot by knot

The Brojanica is not an accessory. It is a spiritual companion, a daily symbol of faith, and an invitation to silence. Whether for yourself or as a gift, it carries the power of prayer within it.

Discover our selection now and find the right prayer band for you or your loved ones.