The mala

What it is

The mala - also known as a japamala - is an instrument used in Hinduism and Buddhism (as well as in Jainism and Sikhism) to count recitations and mantras. Indeed, the word japa specifically refers to the repetition of a sacred formula. Christian and Muslim cultures also have objects that serve a similar function: the rosary for Christians and the misbaha (or tasbih) for Muslims. In Tibetan Buddhism - namely, the Vajrayana tradition, not called Mantrayana without reason - the mala holds great importance and accompanies the practitioners in all their actions.

Appearance

In Sanskrit, mala means "garland," and in a sense, the mala resembles one: it consists of a cord strung with beads made of stone, wood, bone, or metal, or fashioned from the seeds of a sacred plant. The material used is significant and is typically considered auspicious. A mala usually contains 108 beads, though smaller versions (such as those with 54 or 27 beads) also exist. It is also common for a mala to feature a so-called "mother bead" (or guru bead) to mark the starting and ending point of the recitation.

Why 108 beads?

Since ancient times, the number 108 has been considered sacred because it connects mathematics, astronomy, and spirituality. In Buddhism, it evokes and represents: the 108 energy channels radiating from the heart; the 108 sutras that make up the Kangyur (the collection of the Buddha’s teachings); the distance between the Earth and the Sun, which measures 108 times the Sun's diameter; and the 108 vital points in the body according to Ayurveda.

How to use it and keep it

The beads are counted by moving forward, holding the bead between the thumb and one of the other fingers - usually of the left hand - and advancing from bead to bead. The mala is considered an extremely sacred and personal object; Consequently, it must be treated with respect and care; for example, it should never be placed directly on the floor or taken into the bathroom. It is common to ask teachers to bless it to foster an effective spiritual practice. It can be kept in a special pouch or, for convenience, worn around the neck or on the wrist and taking care not to wear it like just any piece of jewelry.

BUY YOUR OWN MALA

Watch the video to learn how to use the mala correctly.