Popularity of mala bead bracelets and necklaces have increased over the last several years and people can be seeing wearing them all over the world. The Buddhist Mala Prayer Beads are used to clear and focus the mind by counting the repetitions of mantra chants. This practice has been used for centuries.
Prayer beads are believed to have originated around the 8th century in India. A large number of modern religious practices include mala beads to help recite prayers and to meditate (Mala,Rosary, Subha, etc.). The word ‘bead’ originates from the Anglo-Saxon words ‘bidden’ and ‘bede’, which mean ‘to pray’ and ‘prayer’.
How to Use Mala Beads
There are many ways to use mala beads so it is a good idea to figure out what works best for you. To feel the energy and power of the mala beads it is a good idea to wear them throughout the day.
Traditionally, the beads are used during meditation. The practice of chanting a mantra is used as a form of meditation.The main purpose of the beads is to help recite mantras as you meditate. They are used so the user of the mantra can focus on the vibration, meaning and sound of what is being said, while counting the beads. The beads help the user keep their focus on their mantra and meditative state. In the process of quieting your mind, complete concentration may not come easily at first. Mala prayer beads are excellent tools to help you keep your focus while chanting mantras. Hold the beads in your hand and feel their energy as you meditate.
Beads can also be made from different materials – crystals, seeds, wood or gemstones. Each material has different beneficial features that enhance the purpose of the mala. For example, Natural Amethyst and Chrysocolla Lotus Mala combines the effects of two beneficial stones in one mala. Amethyst is known for balancing energies, healing impatience, bringing clarity, eliminating mental agitation and helping grounding. It naturally guides the mind toward deeper understanding and is possibly one of the best crystals that can be used for meditation. Chrysocolla has soothing and peaceful vibes of the ocean, which help cool off hotheaded, fiery emotions as soon as it touches the skin. It discharges negative energies and is often used to ease work-related stress. It calms the mind and allows inner wisdom and truth and to surface.
Meaning Behind the Number 108
Are you wondering why there are 108 beads? Different disciplines and cultures give different meaning and significance to the number 108, across a wide range of scientific, religious, and philosophical beliefs. Here are a few:
According to some Vedic teaching institutions like Arsha Vidya Gurukul, Sanskrit alphabet has 54 letters, each letter having the feminine and masculine aspect – Shakti and Shiva. The total number is 108.
Chakras are the focal points in our subtle bodies, where energy lines intersect. The Heart Chakra is formed out of 108 energy lines that are converging at its spot.
The number 108 is also known as a ‘Harshad’ number, which means that it can be divided by the sum of its digits. In Sanskrit language, harshad means ‘great joy’.
As separate numbers, it is believed that 1 stands for higher Truth, 0 for spiritual completeness and 8 for eternity.
Mala beads are so much more than a trendy fashion-statement. Depending on the material they are made of, they can give their wearer a wide range of benefits. Check out our great collection of malas, which can be worn as a necklace or bracelet.
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