BellaOnline Forums Religion and Spirituality Meditation Mala Beads

Why does a mala have 108 beads?

I'm not sure but would like to know more about mala beads. Does anyone have any background on them and instructions on how to make them? I work with beads and would like to make my own.

Thanks,
Joan

Sandalwood is nice for a mala. The number 108 is a spiritual number. A wrist mala is 27 beads or one quarter the amount.

String your beads and tie a knot between each bead. Some malas have a special bead that is the starting place for praying.

One way to use them is to sit in meditation and say a mantra for each bead and move them along between your thumb, index and middle finger.

Yes. That is right.
Let me add to this. The mala should be kept above waist while doing mantra.

Are there any certain materials that should be used for the beads and what you string them on?

Thanks
Joan

Many Buddhist use mala beads made of sandwood or seeds from the Bodhi tree. The Bodhi tree is the tree Buddha sat under to gain enlightment.

Heavy cotton string can be used - sometimes the string is dyed dark pink or red.

Thanks for the info.

Joan

Whilst it is important to treat any object which assists us in our own personal quest to attain a good level within ourselves, of our own chosen spirituality, I think it important to not attach too much importance to how you hold a mala, or where on your body you wear it, or where (in relation to your body) you use it...
Hinduism and Yoga have much ritual attached to the use of the mala, and I whilst I wholly respoect and understand this, Buddhism does not so much attach the importance to the beads as to the practise.
In both Hindu and Buddhist methods, provided your practise intention is wholesome, skillful and mindful, your mala is a vehicle for helping you get there, and doesn't contain any mystical, magical, spiritual properties or characteristics. It's there as a means, not as an end. By all means treat it with respect, but don't get "up yourself" or daft about it.

Just my view.

I will give a tip here.

After you recite your mantra, take a small cup of water and submerge the mala in that. After a minute drink the water. You will feel difference in your body after a week without fail.