What Are Mala Beads Use For and Why Are There 108 Beads on a Mala
Posted by WENJING LIN
- Introduction
- What Are Mala Beads Use For: Mindfulness Meditation
- Why Are there 108 Beads on a Mala: A Gateway to Enlightenment
- A Path to Mindfulness Meditation and Enlightenment
- Conclusion
Introduction
108 Mala Beads, are made from the traditional and popular Bodhi seed. Plants of this family are distributed widely, mainly concentrated in subtropical regions, ranging from the Indochina Peninsula to the Malay Archipelago, and they are also cultivated in China. Due to its extensive distribution, the Star and Moon Bodhi seed has many variants. These Beads, also known as "Moon and Stars" in Tibetan Buddhism, reflect the small holes (moon) and tiny black dots (stars) that cover the surface of the seed, making each bead unique and special. Currently, the sourced seeds in the Wenwan market mainly come from India and Nepal v.
In the heart of Tibetan Buddhism lies a sacred tradition embodied by the 108 Star & Moon Bodhi Mala Beads. Infused with spiritual significance, these beads are not just adornments but revered tools that guide practitioners on a journey of enlightenment. Let's delve into the profound world of Tibetan Buddhism, talk about what are Mala Beads use and why are there 108 Beads on a Mala.
What Are Mala Beads Use For: Mindfulness Meditation
There has been a rise in people in western culture, especially among today’s spiritual-seeking nomads, wearing Mala necklaces. With the rise of wellness travel, so too follows an increased popularity of this cultural necklace as a fashion accessory. However, most people who wear them are likely unaware of what it fully signifies let alone have used it for its traditional purpose: counting mantras in meditation.
The trend of wearing Malas might be “new” to western travelers, but it actually dates back thousands of years. The history of prayer beads is believed to have originated in India around the eighth century B.C.E. Many of today’s religions also use beaded necklaces — Mala, Rosary, Subha — to help meditate and recite prayers. The English word bead even comes from the Anglo-Saxon words bede and bidden which mean “prayer" and “to pray.”
The purpose of meditation is to calm the mind, and keeping track of the number of mantras you recite during meditation requires concentration and active conscious thought. The use of prayer beads allows one to focus on the meaning or sound of the mantra rather than counting its repetitions. Typically, the mantra is repeated once for each bead while circling each bead with your thumb.
Why Are there 108 Beads on a Mala: A Gateway to Enlightenment
In relative terms, the number 108 is quite common in prayer beads, and it can be found on many Buddhist beads. It symbolically represents the elimination of 108 kinds of afflictions, aiming for mental and physical stability, and transforming into a state of desirelessness and contentment. This number is often chosen by many practitioners who wear Star & Moon Bodhi beads. As for the contents of the 108 afflictions, there are various interpretations. In general, each of the six senses has three types of feelings—suffering, happiness, and indifference—amounting to eighteen. Additionally, each of the six senses has three types of reactions—good, bad, and neutral—also totaling eighteen. Combining these, there are thirty-six possible afflictions. Furthermore, when paired with the concepts of past, present, and future in the three realms, it results in a total of 108 afflictions. Wearing 108 beads on the hand forms four rounds, and currently, the most common finished product of Star & Moon Bodhi beads in the market is a string of 108 beads.
A Path to Mindfulness Meditation and Enlightenment
Beyond their aesthetic allure, these Mala Beads serve as potent tools for meditation and prayer. The rhythmic counting of beads fosters mindfulness meditation, allowing practitioners to center their thoughts and connect with the divine.
Wearing the 108 Star & Moon Bodhi Mala Beads becomes a sacred practice, a tangible link to the profound teachings of Tibetan Buddhism, and a source of spiritual protection.
Conclusion:
The 108 Star & Moon Bodhi seed Mala Beads is currently one of the most widely used and influential prayer beads among practitioners, listed as one of the contemporary "Four Famous Beads." They encapsulate the essence of Tibetan Buddhism, offering a path to spiritual enlightenment and mindfulness meditation. Embrace the transformative power of these beads as you embark on a sacred journey, each bead resonating with the cosmic dance of existence. Adorn yourself with these celestial treasures, and let the wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism illuminate your spiritual path.
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