The importance of malas in Indian culture
The importance of malas in Indian culture. Have you ever wondered what a mala is and what it means in Indian culture? The mala is the Indian rosary and is made up of 108 beads.
What does bad mean? - The importance of malas in Indian culture
Mala literally means garland of flowers, it is also called japa mala (japa repetition) and is used for the repetition of mantras.
In India 108 is a sacred and symbolic number.
The number 108 and its symbolism: what lies behind this sacred number?
The one represents Brahma supreme consciousness, the eight represents the eight aspects of nature (5 elements earth water fire air ether) plus Amkhara (the self), Manas (the rational mind) and Buddhi (intellect and intelligence).
Zero represents the cosmos, creation which is represented by Shiva.
The 8 also represents primordial Shakti (feminine energy).
Number one is also the union of Shiva and Shakti the fusion of the two opposites.
The number 108 occurs in both the Hindu and Buddhist traditions, 108 are also the names of Shiva, Khrshna, Visnu, Rada and Lakshmi.
In the Vedas (sacred texts) 108 is often repeated, even the Upanishads are 108. Also in the sacred texts 108 are the Gopis (shepherdesses) of Khrsna.
How is a mala composed? - The importance of malas in Indian culture
Mala beads are made of lotus seeds, rudraksha, sandalwood, tulsi, crystal, amber and many other stones. The mala is always held in the right hand and you begin to pray or recite starting from the junction point, which is the different bead that is in the center. You must never go beyond that bead but go back. Every grain that flows is a recited mantra. The grains can only be touched with the thumb and middle finger.
Do you have any mala jewelry?
Yes, certainly. We are passionate about stones and jewels that also contain sacred symbolism. You can find the collection of our malas here
Where to read more?
We haven't found any books to recommend yet but we find the section on Wikipedia about it very interesting. Check !
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