What are Mala Beads and the story behind? Why 108 beads on a mala?

For centuries, various religious traditions have used prayer beads as a means of meditation and prayer. From Hinduism to Catholicism to Islam, the significance of prayer beads has been demonstrated and therefore widely adopted. A classic example of prayer beads is the Mala bead necklace. In this article, we will answer questions about what are mala beads and the history along with the meaningful stories behind this spiritual item.

What are mala beads? How many beads in a mala?

What is a mala bead? Mala bead is a string of beads, typically made of natural materials such as gemstones, wood, or seeds, used as a tool in spiritual practices such as meditation, yoga, and prayer. 

The mala consists of 108 bead mala and a larger bead known as the guru bead, which marks the mala’s beginning and end. The number 108 holds significant spiritual symbolism in various cultures and practices, making the 108 beads mala a powerful tool for spiritual growth and mindfulness. The beads count the repetition of mantras or prayers, allowing the practitioner to focus their mind and intention on the spiritual practice. Overall, the 108 bead mala is a sacred and powerful tool to deepen one’s spiritual practice and connect with a higher sense of purpose.

The history of mala beads

Wearing Mala bead necklaces appears to be a recent trend in Western culture, but it dates back to the 8th century in India. The traditional beads, called “rudraksha,” are made from sacred trees associated with Lord Shiva, the Hindu deity responsible for protecting sacred texts.

The use of these beads may be linked to the Mokugenji Sutra, a 4th-century text, which tells the story of King Haruri seeking advice from Siddhārtha Gautama on how to introduce the Buddha’s teachings to his people. The Buddha advised him to create a 108-bead circular necklace made from Mokugenji tree seeds. The king should keep it and recite “Namo Buddha – Namo Dharma – Namo Sangha,” counting one bead for each recitation.

In English, this recitation means “I dedicate myself to enlightenment, I dedicate myself to the right path, I dedicate myself to the community.”

While the use of Mala beads has evolved beyond prayer in modern times, with various materials such as gemstones, seeds, and bones used, they are still used for meditation and as a spiritual tool.

Why 108 beads on a mala and the story behind

A traditional Mala bead typically has 108 beads. This number holds sacred significance in Buddhism. It’s believed to represent the 108 human afflictions or worldly desires one must overcome to attain enlightenment. It also relates to other aspects of Buddhist teachings, like the 108 sensations arising from the interaction of the senses with the external world.

The mala beads meaning and uses

In many spiritual traditions, the number 108 is considered sacred and significant. The use of a 108-bead mala is every day in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, among other traditions.

Some symbolic interpretations of the significance of 108 beads on a mala:

• Mindfulness and concentration: The Mala bead necklace is used as a tool to help practitioners focus their minds during meditation and recitation. The tactile sensation of holding and moving the beads aids in maintaining concentration and presence in spiritual practices, a fundamental aspect of Buddhist meditation.
• Chant counting: Mala beads assist practitioners in keeping track of the number of times they repeat mantras or prayers during meditation. This counting process encourages discipline and commitment, both of which are essential qualities on the Buddhist path.
• Spiritual energy: Mala beads are believed to accumulate spiritual energy or merit when used in meditation and mantra recitation. This accumulated energy is thought to provide protection, inspiration, and strength to the practitioner, supporting their spiritual journey.
• Intention reminders: Wearing or carrying the bead necklace can serve as a continuous reminder of one’s spiritual intentions and commitments. They act as tangible symbols of a person’s dedication to the Buddhist path and the cultivation of virtues such as compassion, wisdom, and mindfulness.
• Connection to guru or teacher: The larger guru bead in the Mala symbolizes the spiritual guide or teacher, emphasizing the importance of the teacher-student relationship in Buddhism. It serves as a reminder to acknowledge and honor the guidance and wisdom provided by the teacher on the spiritual journey.

It’s fascinating how Mala beads in Buddhism have depth and profound meaning! They are not just random accessories but practical and genuinely meaningful tools that support your meditation practice.

How to use Buddhist mala beads in meditation

• Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit for meditation. Sit with your back straight and your hands resting on your knees or thighs.
• Hold the Mala beads in your right hand, with the string passing through the middle or ring finger. Your thumb will be used to move the beads during meditation.
• Start with the bead next to the guru bead, which is a larger bead marking the beginning and end of the bead string. Place the first bead between your thumb and middle or ring finger.
• Take a moment to relax and take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Set an intention for your meditation or remember the mantra you will recite.
• As you recite your chosen mantra or focus on your breath, gently roll the bead between your thumb and index finger. You can do this silently, softly whisper the mantra, or speak it aloud, depending on your preference.
• After reciting the mantra once or completing a breath cycle, use your thumb to move to the next bead, pulling it towards you across your finger.
• Continue this process, moving through each bead on the Mala as you recite the mantra or focus on your breath. Maintain your concentration and awareness throughout your meditation.
• When you reach the guru bead or pendant, do not pass it. Instead, you can pause for meditation or reverse the direction, turning the Mala and continuing in the opposite direction.
• Conclude your meditation by spending a few minutes in silent reflection to absorb the energy and benefits of your practice. You can also dedicate the merits generated from your meditation for the happiness and enlightenment of all beings.

Agarwood mala bead – gifted produce converging the essence of heaven and earth

Agarwood is a product crystallized from the wound-healing process of the Gourd tree (Aquilaria tree). When living in the wild, Aquilaria trees can be injured due to external factors such as weather, insects or war. To protect itself from mold and harmful bacteria, the tree creates a resinous zone to form around the wound. Over decades of dew and wind, this oil penetrates the wood fibers, creating Agarwood. 

“The pain becomes Agarwood”, folk handed down this saying as a testament to the value of Agarwood. Agarwood is obtained from the pain of the Gourd tree, perhaps because of that, heaven and earth give it the ecstatic scent that touches people.

People call Agarwood the wood of heaven, must also be a reason because few fragrances stick to people as long as Agarwood. It persists over time, making people feel as pure as returning to their ego.

Address to buy Mala beads made from real Agarwood

Nowadays, the 108 beads Agarwood bracelets are used by devout Buddhists in prayer meetings and by households as an item placed next to Buddha statues or as an accessory to carry with them. Visibly, the value of 108 mala beads Agarwood is worn out over time and nurtured by people.

So you can choose and buy this product at both of Thien Moc Huong stores:

Store in Ho Chi Minh City: 71 Nguyen Khac Nhu Street, Co Giang Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Store in Hanoi City: 120 Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi, Vietnam

Hotline: 0933.348.368 (Ho Chi Minh City) – 0818.348.368 (Hanoi City)