Avoid Merkaba Beads in Praying Rosary

Merkaba (or Merkabah) beads derive, in part, from an ancient Jewish mysticism. The term “Merkabah” roughly translates as “chariot” or a “thing to ride in, cart,” and is associated with the prophet Ezekiel’s vision (Ezek. 1:4-26). The Catholic Church has not endorsed this Jewish mysticism, though the Church certainly recognizes the mystical experiences of the saints, including persons in the Bible, e.g., St. John in the Book of Revelation.

More recently, New Age enthusiasts have appropriated Merkaba beads and attributed special energies to them, including healing energies. Such practices are clearly prohibited, because they involve magic and thus involve—wittingly or unwittingly—the invocation of non-Christian spirits (CCC 2117). Consequently, Catholics should avoid any rosaries made of Merkaba beads and only use rosaries made for a genuinely holy purpose and blessed by a validly ordained priest or deacon.