(TibetanReview.net, Jan17’24) – Did King Frederik X of Denmark wear a distinctly Tibetan Buddhist bracelet when he ascended the Danish throne on Jan 14, succeeding his mother, Queen Margrethe II, who abdicated after 52 years as monarch? A report which appeared on townandcountrymag.com Jan 16 thought so. Some critics have expressed concern, while a royal commentator has called it a “brave choice”.
Frederik was proclaimed king at a formal ceremony on the balcony of Christiansborg Palace, following the signing of a declaration of his ascension, with the events being devoid of any pomp and circumstance.
“For the historic occasion, the newly-appointed King donned a military uniform with the Order of the Elephant, a variety of badges, and insignias featuring the Holy Cross. But there was another subtle, key part of his ensemble that also captured eagle-eyed royal fans’ eyes: a macrame bracelet.
“The bracelet was seen peeking out of King Frederik’s uniform as Queen Margrethe formally signed her abdication papers.”
“The bracelet in question is believed to be a Shamballa bracelet,” the report said.
“The piece, traditionally made from wooden beads and knotting, is essentially Buddhist prayer beads. The word Shamballa is said to represent the ‘mythical kingdom that Tibetan Buddhists believe symbolizes enlightenment, peace, and perfection.’ The bracelet has long been associated with meditation and spirituality, and some think that wearing one can bring them good luck and fortune,” the report continued.
Many might consider King Frederik’s Shamballa bracelet a simple talisman for good luck ahead of his reign. However, some critics saw it as a sign of him straying from his Christian faith, the report said, noting that the king or queen of Denmark must be a member of the Danish National Church, or Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark.
However, Jim Lyngvild, a Danish royal commentator, has called King Frederik’s decision to wear the Shamballa bracelet a “brave choice,” saying “it testifies to a king who believes in something that is ‘bigger than ourselves.’ It shows that we have a royal house that is in step with the times.”
“He’s not saying that he’s against Christianity, he’s just saying that you have to think something else is bigger.”
The report noted that King Frederik had made it clear over the years that religion does not play a significant role in his life.