Tibetan Mala: how to choose it and how to use it
Buddhist rosary, necklace composed of 108 natural hard stone spheres knotted one by one
Tibetan Mala 108 beads in natural hard stones
What is the Tibetan Mala and how is it used?
The history of these jewels is thousands of years old and their use is linked to prayer, spiritual practices and meditation typical of Eastern religions. They are used equally by both Hindus what do you give Buddhists .
In addition to their religious function, these jewels composed of 108 beads are also used as necklaces or bracelets, to add a touch of ethnic elegance to men's and women's outfits.
The analogies with our rosary are evident (it is no coincidence that the Tibetan Mala or, more correctly the Mala, is also referred to as the Indian rosary).
And in fact, just like a rosary, it is used to keep track of the repetitions of a mantra or the names of a deity. In this way, it is a tool of awareness and an aid in the pursuit of total concentration.
How to maintain a mala
Even if it is used as an accessory, its function should not be forgotten, therefore there are some things to know for its correct use and its care and maintenance.
You shouldn't use it while bathing, especially if you're using wooden models with internal cotton thread (which could weaken it). For the same reason, it's best to remove it before bed or before physical activity, which could damage or break the thread.
The products of Anthracite are made in an artisanal manner and entirely by hand , taking these aspects into account, in particular Between each stone there is a hand-made knot which, in addition to having a practical function - the necklace is more resistant - also symbolizes the union between living beings.
The metal parts are in aged silver , a noble material that becomes increasingly shiny over time and marries perfectly with natural stones.
When you're not wearing it, we recommend storing your Mala in a cotton bag . Both stones and silver need air and light to maintain their luster.
Finally, if you use the mala as a devotional object and it falls to the ground, you should wear it on your head (as a crown) while reciting the syllables Om, Ah, Hum three times.
Why does the Mala have 108 beads?
The 108 is a sacred number Not only in the Buddhist tradition, but also in other Indian religions, whose deities have—precisely—one hundred and eight names. It is the number of sins in Tibetan Buddhism; 108 are the energy lines that form the heart chakra, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti, or the creation of the world. 108 is also the relationship between the solar ray and the earth's ray, demonstrating that Eastern spirituality is also the legacy of ancient and highly advanced knowledge of the cosmos and science.
And we could go on and on: This is why the Tibetan Mala (or Indian rosary, another name it is indicated with) They have 108 grains or beads, made of scented stone or wood .
Which evil to choose?
There are wrist models and neck models and the choice, in the latter case, can depend on your taste (if you use it as an accessory) or, if its use is linked to your spiritual practices, on the material it is made from and the color of the stones.