The Craft of Al-Subha in Saudi Arabia
The Craft of Al-Subha (Prayer Beads) in Saudi Arabia is a historical profession in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, known in several of its regions, especially in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. The profession involves collecting beads after sourcing materials from trees or some gemstones, then threading them, which requires skill and precision practiced by those known as "Al-Subhiyyah".
Al-Subha Craft Tools
Historically, Al-Subha makers relied on simple tools to accomplish their tasks, such as scissors to cut the threads used to string the beads, and manual drilling tools to create holes in the beads. Additionally, polishing and smoothing tools to give a soft texture to the beads, especially when the materials used had a rough nature.
Raw Materials for Al-Subha Craft
Al-Subha is crafted from several raw materials, some of which were derived from plants and trees, and some from precious stones. These materials include sandalwood, tamarind known as red wood, agarwood, date pits, and olive pits, in addition to beads made from Al-Yusur (Black Coral), a coral tree from some parts of the Red Sea brought and processed then soaked in water for a period of time before being made into beads.
Al-Subha During Hajj and Umrah
Al-Subha is used for prayer and Athkar and are widely sold during the Hajj and Umrah seasons in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. They are also used as ornaments in public events and places across most parts of Saudi Arabia, and they serve as a means of pastime for people to occupy themselves while waiting.
Modern Crafting of Al-Subha
Currently, Al-Subha is made using modern machines like electric drilling machines, among others. Plastic has become a major material used alongside traditional materials due to its abundance and low cost. Simultaneously, traditional methods are still somewhat popular, as some Subha makers are keen to revive and preserve the cultural heritage of bead crafting.