Mala: Origin, Meaning and Use of Buddhist Prayer Beads

1) 生即（Life）: Symbolizes the cycle of life.
2)无印（Without impression）: Represents freedom of mind, without attachment to imprints.
3)念呼（Thought call）: Evokes the importance of awareness and attention.
4) 夙重（Ancient Burden）: Indicates the weight of past karmas.
5)用相植树（Tree Planting with Use Form）: Means the wise use of actions for spiritual growth.
6) Law of Speech: Emphasizes truth and correctness in speech.

7) Pure Light: Represents the purity of the enlightened mind.
8)利物益人（Benefit others）: Encourages actions that benefit others.
9)譬如流水（Like running water）: Symbolizes the fluidity and adaptability of the mind.
10)因依事理（Reliance on Reason and Matter）: Emphasizes the importance of logic and reality.
11)照日出月（Brightness of the sun and the moon）: Represents duality and the balance between light and darkness.
12) Light of Direction: Indicates clarity in the spiritual path.
13)触光（Light of touch）: Symbolizes the positive influence of spiritual light.
14) 分开光明（Separation of Light）: Represents the differentiation of various forms of spiritual light.
15)分别世（Distinction of the worlds）: Emphasizes the distinction between the material and spiritual world.
16)必入群才（Inclusion of all talents）: Encourages the acceptance and use of diverse talents for the common good.
17) Possession of the Fundamentals: Emphasizes the importance of solid foundations in spiritual practice.
18)一切智者（Universal Sage）: Represents omniscience and universal wisdom.
19)善无畏（Good Fearlessness）: Encourages courage in the pursuit of good.
20)无诤（Without dispute）: Emphasizes peace and absence of conflict.
21)超离法性（Escape from the nature of the law）: Represents the transcendence of worldly laws.
22)慧路具足（Complete Path of Wisdom）: Indicates a complete and balanced spiritual path.
23) 广增益（Great Increase in Benefits）: Encourages the expansion of spiritual benefits.
24)不懈怠（Without laziness）: Emphasizes diligence and assiduity.
25)善巧方便（Skill and Ease）: Represents ingenuity and flexibility in spiritual practice.
26)莲华（Lotus flower）: Symbolizes purity and spiritual awakening.
27)无胜（Without equal）: Represents uniqueness and incomparableness.
28) Heartless: Evokes the mind free from all emotional attachments.
29) Pure Lamp (Pure Lamp): Symbolizes the pure light of wisdom.
30)无痴明（Without ignorance）: Emphasizes the light of knowledge and the absence of ignorance.
31)離邪慢（Avoiding Bad Habits）: Encourages the abandonment of harmful habits.
32)離邪见（Avoiding wrong views）: Represents the liberation from false perceptions.
33)持光（Light-bearer）: Indicates the ability to spread spiritual light.
34) 无所有（Without possession）: Represents detachment from material possessions.
35)现成德（Manifested Virtue）: Emphasizes the manifestation of virtues in daily life.
36)随念月（Following the thought moon）: Symbolizes continuous reflection and mental clarity.
37)无尽业（Endless）: Represents the endless nature of actions and their consequences.
38)如意（As desired）: Indicates the fulfillment of spiritual desires.
39)天眼（Celestial Eye）: Symbolizes clairvoyant vision.
40)不动（Immobile）: Encourages stability and inner peace.
41)无见（Invisible）: Represents perception beyond the visible.
42)无隐（Without concealment）: Emphasizes transparency and truth.
43)无妄（Without illusion）: Represents freedom from illusions and disappointments.
44)天心月（Heavenly Heart Moon）: Symbolizes purity of heart and enlightenment.
45) 日轮王（Sun Wheel King）: Represents the power and clarity of the sun.
46)清净（Purity）: Indicates spiritual and moral purity.
47)离一切染（Avoidance of all impurities）: Encourages the release of all impurities.
48)涌泉（Gushing Spring）: Symbolizes the inexhaustible source of wisdom.
49)常增广（Constant Increase）: Represents continuous growth and expansion.
50)海流（Sea Current）: Symbolizes the power and fluidity of spiritual currents.
51)无滞留（Without Stagnation）: Encourages constant movement and the absence of stagnation.
52)施安乐（Gift of happiness）: Emphasizes sharing happiness and joy
53)施持（Maintenance of giving）: Represents consistency in giving and generosity.
54)无间持（Continued Maintenance）: Encourages continuous perseverance.
55)清净灯（Pure Lamp）: Symbolizes the pure light of wisdom.
56) Without possession: Emphasizes detachment from material goods.
57)光耀（Brightness）: Represents the brilliance and radiance of wisdom.
58)无诤（Without dispute）: Encourages peace and absence of conflict.
59)常安（Constant Peace）: Represents lasting peace and tranquility.
60)一切智（All-wisdom）: Symbolizes omniscience and universal wisdom.
61)大日（Great sun）: Indicates supreme light and clarity.

62) Wisdom without leakage: Represents wisdom without imperfection.
63)施无畏（Gift of Fearlessness）: Encourages courage and bravery.
64)大勇（Great bravery）: Symbolizes strength and determination.
65)一切智（All-wisdom）: Represents universal wisdom.
66)一切现（All manifestations）: Emphasizes the manifestation of all realities.
67)无所施（Without gift）: Indicates the absence of need to give.
68)光明（Light）: Symbolizes the light of wisdom.
69) 无所恐（Fearless）: Encourages fearlessness and fearlessness.
70)作无安（Unable to create disorder）: Emphasizes the inability to create chaos.
71)沙罗华（Sala Flower）: Represents spiritual purity and beauty.
72)普贤（Samantabhadra）: Symbolizes universal goodness.
73)常住（Permanence）: Indicates permanence and stability.
74)无等（Without equal）: Represents uniqueness and incomparableness.
75)智德（Virtue of wisdom）: Symbolizes virtue and wisdom.
76)般若智（Prajna wisdom）: Indicates transcendental wisdom.
77) Birthless Birth: Represents the unborn nature of existence
78)知离（Avoidance Knowledge）: Encourages awareness and avoidance of mistakes.
79)无知者（Without knowledge）: Symbolizes freedom from false knowledge or illusions.
80)生无行（Birth without action）: Represents existence without attachment to actions.

81) 无碍行（Action without obstacle）: Encourages actions that encounter no obstacles.
82)尽日光（Full Daylight）: Symbolizes complete illumination like daylight.
83) Moonlight (Moonlight): Represents the soft, reflected light of the moon.
84)破除一切种（Destruction of all seeds）: Indicates the elimination of all causes of suffering.
85)大日（Great Sun）: Symbolizes clarity and supreme enlightenment.
86)俱胝遍空（Universal filling of the void）: Represents completeness and infinity filling the void.
87)超现音字者（Higher Sound and Letters Manifested）: Symbolizes the higher manifestation of sounds and letters.
88)一切护者（Protector of all）: Encourages the protection of all beings.
89)幻相（Illusory Appearance）: Represents the illusory nature of appearances.
90)一切相如是（All alike）: Indicates that all things are as they are.
91) 不离安乐（Non-separation of happiness）: Encourages the constant presence of happiness.
92)无畏解脱（Fearless Liberation）: Symbolizes liberation from fears and attachments.
93)超现罗汉（Higher Manifested Arhat）: Represents the higher qualities of an Arhat.
94)无垢（三昧）（Purity (Samadhi)）: Symbolizes the purity achieved in the state of Samadhi.
95)空性（Empty Nature）: Represents the empty nature of existence.
96)知者如是（Knower thus）: Encourages understanding of reality as it is.
97)智者（Sage）: Represents wisdom and knowledge.
98)无所依（Without dependence）: Symbolizes total independence.
99)离一切相（Avoidance of all appearances）: Indicates the transcendence of superficial appearances.
100)无二如一切（Non-duality equal to everything）: Represents the unity of all things in non-duality.
101) 俱胝无障碍（Complete non-obstruction）: Encourages the complete absence of obstacles.一切照见（Complete Enlightenment）: Symbolizes total clarity and enlightenment.
102)离一切清净无等（Avoidance of all unsurpassed purities）: Indicates the transcendence of unsurpassed purities.
103)离一切清净无等（Avoidance of all unsurpassed purities）: Indicates the transcendence of unsurpassed purities.
104)涅槃（Nirvana）: Represents the attainment of Nirvana, the ultimate liberation.
105)不空见（Vision of Emptiness）: Encourages the vision of the emptiness of all things.
106)摧伏诸魔（Submission of all demons）: Symbolizes victory over all negative forces.
107)吹法雷震（Sound of the thunder of the law）: Represents the power of truth and spiritual law.
108)无障碍（三昧）（Samadhi without obstacles）: Symbolizes the state of Samadhi achieved without obstacles.

E ) The 108 divine names
In various spiritual practices, it is said that there are 108 sacred names or mantras associated with deities or aspects of divinity. The mala beads can be used to recite these mantras and connect with divine energies.

F) The 108 breaths
Some meditation techniques teach that there are 108 complete breaths needed to achieve a state of calm and deep concentration. Using a mala to count these breaths facilitates meditative practice.

2 - Guru beads or head beads
At the end of the mala, you will find a larger, distinct bead, often called the "main bead" or "head bead." This bead represents the connection with the spiritual teacher or inner guide. The main bead serves as a starting and ending point when reciting mantras, helping the practitioner focus.
It symbolizes the spiritual teacher or inner guide and reminds the practitioner to cultivate wisdom and compassion. The guru is an essential component of the mala, representing spiritual inspiration and guidance.

3- chaturmaharaja or counterpearls
Chaturmaharaja (or chaturmaharajas) are special beads placed at regular intervals, usually every 27 beads in a 108-bead mala. They serve to mark the divisions of the beads to help the practitioner keep track of the number of mantra repetitions without having to concentrate on counting.
Chaturmaharaja allow the mala to be divided into equal segments, making it easier to keep track of the number of mantras recited.

2- Chinese Ch'an Buddhism and its descendant Japanese Zen
In the Zen tradition and other Japanese Zen Buddhist currents, directly inspired by their ancestor, Chinese Ch'an, a mala called "juzu" is often used:

• 108 Pearls : A juzu is composed of 108 smaller beads, often divided into two sets of 54 beads each, separated by a central counter.
• Central Meter : A distinctive counter, usually a larger bead or decorative element, is used to mark the starting and ending point of the juzu.
• Cord Loop : Instead of a tassel, the juzu usually has a loop of cord that allows it to be worn around the wrist.

Malas used in Zen Buddhism are typically made from wooden, stone, or ivory beads, with natural, muted colors. Some Zen malas may include differently colored beads or a larger bead to indicate the starting and ending points of the mala. Juzu (Zen mala) are used in the recitation of specific sutras and mantras in Zen meditation practices.

3- Theravada Buddhism

In Theravada Buddhism, it is common to use shorter malas, made up of 27 beads or multiples of 9 beads:

• Boat : A short mala made up of 27 beads or multiples of 9 beads.
• Seeds : A mala using medicinal plant seeds, such as sandalwood or Bodhi seeds.

These shorter malas are often used for shorter repetitions of mantras or prayers. Theravada malas may feature beads made of sandalwood, Bodhi seeds, or other locally available natural materials. The number of beads can vary, but multiples of 9 are commonly used in reference to the Nine Noble Virtues.

- Types of materials used in malas
A) Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a material traditionally used in mala making. It is valued for its soothing fragrance and spiritual properties. Sandalwood malas are often used for meditation and prayer, helping to calm the mind and promote concentration.

Sandalwood is a popular material for mala making due to its soothing fragrance and spiritual properties. Used for centuries in various religious practices, sandalwood symbolizes peace, tranquility, and purification of the mind. Sandalwood malas are ideal for meditation and prayer, helping to calm the mind and promote concentration. This material is often associated with calming thoughts and promoting a serene atmosphere.

B) Rudraksha Seeds
Rudraksha seeds—blue cherry (Shiva's Tears)—are very popular in Hindu and Buddhist malas. They are considered sacred and possess healing and protective properties. Rudraksha seed malas are used to enhance spirituality and devotion and offer protection against negative energies. Rudraksha seeds symbolize connection with the divine and spiritual awakening, helping to balance energies and purify the soul.


C) Bodhi seeds
Bodhi seeds are particularly sacred in Buddhism, as the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree (sacred fig, ficus religiosa). Bodhi seed malas are used for their profound symbolism and connection to spiritual awakening.
These seeds represent wisdom, enlightenment, and spiritual growth, helping practitioners move closer to Buddhahood.

D) Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
Precious and semi-precious stones, such as amethyst, rose quartz, turquoise, and jade, are often used to create malas. Each stone has its own symbolic and energetic meaning, bringing specific benefits to the practitioner.

• Amethyst : Known for its protective and purifying properties.
• Rose quartz : Symbolizes unconditional love and inner peace.
• Turquoise : Brings healing and protection.
• Jade : Associated with luck, wisdom and prosperity.

Gemstone malas are used to attract specific benefits according to the needs of the practitioner.

E) Bone and Ivory
Bone and ivory beads are sometimes used in Tibetan malas, symbolizing mortality and impermanence. These materials remind the practitioner of the transient nature of life and the importance of spiritual practice.
Bone and ivory malas help one meditate on the reality of death and appreciate the present life.

🔥 Also read: The bone mala in tantric Buddhism The bone mala is a tool of spiritual transmutation, used to meditate on impermanence, channel powerful energies, and connect with wrathful deities such as Mahākala or Vajrakīlaya. 👉 Dive into this rare esoteric universe: 🔗 Why use a bone mala? – Tantric use

F) Precious Metals
Precious metals, such as silver and gold, can be used to make mala beads or pendants. These materials add a dimension of richness and purity to the mala, enhancing its symbolism and spiritual effectiveness.
Silver malas and gold malas are considered powerful tools for meditation, enhancing spiritual effectiveness and bringing a touch of elegance and prestige.

4- Uses of malas in meditation
- meditation methods with a mala

Malas are versatile tools used in various meditation methods to aid concentration and spiritual practice. Here are some of the most common meditation methods using a mala:

A). Japa Meditation

Japa meditation involves reciting mantras on each bead of the mala. This practice is common in Buddhism, Hinduism, and other spiritual traditions. Each bead represents a repetition of the mantra, helping to maintain focus and calm the mind. Commonly used mantras include "Om Mani Padme Hum" and "Om Namah Shivaya."

B) Silent Meditation

Silent meditation with a mala involves passing the beads through the fingers without reciting mantras. This method helps maintain concentration and stay present in the moment. By using the mala, the practitioner can center themselves and deepen their state of silent meditation.

C). Guided Meditation

In guided meditation, the mala is used as a tool to follow the instructions of a spirit guide or an audio recording. The mala helps you stay focused on the instructions while progressing through each bead. This method is especially useful for beginners or those seeking structure in their meditation practice.

- Steps for using a mala during meditation

Using a mala during meditation can improve focus and spiritual connection. Here are the steps to using a mala effectively:

A) Choose a Mantra

Choose a mantra or intention for your practice. The mantra can be a sacred phrase, a word, or a specific intention you wish to manifest.

B) Hold the Mala

Hold the mala in your right hand (or left, depending on tradition) between your thumb and middle finger. The thumb is used to advance the beads while the middle finger holds the mala in place.

C) Start at the Guru Pearl

Begin at the guru bead (the main bead) without reciting it. This bead marks the starting and ending point of your practice.

D) Recite the Mantra

Recite the mantra at each bead, moving clockwise from the guru bead. Use your thumb to slide each bead after each recitation.

E) Complete a Cycle

Once you reach the guru bead, you can either turn back or continue around the guru bead. Do not jump over the guru bead.

F) Focus on Breathing

Focus on your breathing throughout the practice. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly, synchronizing your breathing with the recitation of the mantra.

G) End with Gratitude

At the end of your meditation session, take a moment to express gratitude for the practice and the blessings received. This helps anchor the benefits of meditation and close the session on a positive note.


5- Choosing and Maintaining Your Mala
- tips for choosing a mala

Choosing the right mala is essential for an effective and personal spiritual practice. Here are some tips to help you select the mala that's right for you:

A) Set your Intention

Before choosing a mala, clarify your intention. Do you want to use the mala for meditation, healing, protection, or another specific reason? Your intention will guide the choice of material and type of mala.

B) Choose the Material

Malas are made from a variety of materials, each with its own energetic and symbolic properties. Here are some popular options:

• Sandalwood : Soothing, promotes concentration.
• Rudraksha Seeds : Protection, spiritual balance.
• Bodhi Seeds : Wisdom, enlightenment.
• Precious and Semi-Precious Stones : Amethyst (protection), Rose Quartz (love), Turquoise (healing), Jade (luck).
• Bone and Ivory : Reminds of mortality, impermanence.
• Precious Metals : Silver, gold, for spiritual wealth and purity.

C) Length and Number of Beads

Traditionally, a mala has 108 beads, but variations exist with 18, 27, or 54 beads. Choose a length that suits you and your practice. Shorter malas can be convenient for everyday use or for traveling.

C) Additional Elements

Some malas include deity beads, guru pendants, or symbolic charms. These elements can add an extra dimension to your spiritual practice.

D) Feel the Connection

When choosing a mala, hold it in your hands and feel its energy. Choose the one that attracts you the most and with which you feel a spiritual connection.

- Tips for maintaining a mala

Maintaining your mala is crucial to preserving its energy and extending its lifespan. Here are some tips for purifying, respecting, and recharging your mala:

A) Regular Purification

Purify your mala regularly to eliminate accumulated negative energies:

• Sage or Incense Smoke: Pass your mala through the smoke to purify it.
• Moonlight: Place your mala under the light of the full moon to recharge it.
• Selenite or Amethyst Crystals: Place your mala on these crystals to purify and recharge it.

B) Respectful Handling

Handle your mala with respect and care. Avoid placing it on the ground or in dirty areas. Treat it as a sacred and spiritual object.

C) Avoid Water

Some beads and materials can be damaged by water. Avoid wearing your mala in the shower or while swimming.

D) Proper Storage

Store your mala in a clean and sacred place. Use a special pouch or box to protect it when not in use.

E) Energy Recharge

Recharge your mala regularly to maintain its energy:

• Exposure to Sunlight: Place your mala in the sun for a few hours, but be careful not to let the gemstones discolor.
• Meditation with Intention: Hold your mala during meditation and visualize it recharging with divine light or positive energy.

F) Repair and Replacement

Over time, the mala's threads can wear out. If necessary, have your mala repaired by a qualified craftsman or replace it with a new one while respecting the continuity of your practice.

6- integrate your mala into your daily life

Malas are not only tools for meditation, they can also be incorporated into your daily life in many ways to strengthen your spiritual connection and bring positive energies into your environment.

- Wear a Mala

Wearing a mala as a necklace or bracelet can be a powerful way to keep your spiritual intentions close to you throughout the day.

A) Mala Necklaces

Wearing a mala around your neck is a traditional way to keep this powerful spiritual tool close to your heart. It serves as a constant reminder of your prayers and intentions.

B) Mala Bracelets

Shorter malas can be worn as bracelets. They are practical and allow you to meditate or recite mantras throughout the day.

C) Personalized Mala

Choose or have a mala made that suits your spiritual and aesthetic needs. You can select the materials, colors, and symbols that resonate most with you.

- Use in Prayer

Malas can be used in various prayer practices to deepen your spiritual connection.

A) Daily Mantras

Use your mala to recite mantras or prayers every morning and evening. This practice can help center your mind and establish a solid spiritual routine.

B) Prayer Meditation

Incorporate your mala into prayer meditation sessions, focusing on each bead and reciting sacred mantras. This method helps amplify your intentions and strengthen your faith.

- Spiritual Decoration

Malas can also be used as decorative elements in your living space to create a spiritual and calming ambiance.

A) Personal Altar

Place your mala on a personal altar with other sacred objects, such as deity statues, candles, and crystals. This creates a sacred space for meditation and prayer.

B) Wall Decoration

Hang your mala on a wall or door as a symbol of protection and blessing for your home.

- Other Spiritual Uses

Malas can be used in various rituals and ceremonies to enhance one's spiritual power.

A) Rituals and Ceremonies

Incorporate your mala into spiritual rituals and ceremonies, such as blessings, cleansings, and passage ceremonies. Malas can help channel divine energy and amplify ritual intentions.

B) Spiritual Sharing

Use your mala in spiritual sharing sessions with other practitioners. Reciting mantras together with malas can strengthen community bonds and amplify shared spiritual energies.

7- Become a Malakara - creator of malas

Malakaras (mala makers) and malas are essential elements of the Buddhist tradition, offering a spiritual path to inner awakening. In this section, we will explore the deeper meaning of malakaras, their connection to malas, and how they can enrich your spiritual practice.

A) The Malakaras - Guardians of Tradition

Malakaras are guardians of Buddhist tradition, transmitting sacred teachings and preserving ancestral rituals. They embody the values of Buddhism, including compassion, wisdom, and the quest for enlightenment. Malakaras play a crucial role in transmitting spiritual practices and inspiring others to follow the Buddhist path.

B) Learn to Create Malas

Becoming a Malakara requires commitment, patience, and a deep understanding of malas. Here are the steps to becoming a mala maker:

1. Learn about Malas

Familiarize yourself with the different types of malas, the materials used, symbolic meanings, and manufacturing techniques. Learn about the Buddhist and spiritual traditions associated with malas to better understand their use and significance.

2. Acquire Manufacturing Skills

Explore different mala-making techniques, such as bead knotting, bead stringing, material selection, and more. You can take online classes, attend workshops, or find practical resources to help you develop your skills.

3. Choose Quality Materials

Select quality beads and materials for your malas. You can opt for beads made of natural stone, precious wood, sacred seeds, glass, or other materials that match your creative vision.

4. Create a Workspace

Set up a dedicated mala-making space where you can store your materials, tools, and equipment. Make sure you have an organized and comfortable space to work efficiently.

5. Experiment and Develop Your Style

Explore different combinations of beads, colors, and patterns to develop your own unique mala-making style. Be creative and let your inspiration flow.

6. Share Your Work

Showcase your mala creations online, on social media, at craft markets, or in specialty stores. Create your own website or online store to showcase your malas and offer your creations for sale.

7. Cultivate Community Relationships

Engage with the community of mala enthusiasts, spiritual practitioners, and those interested in your work. Participate in events, trade shows, or discussion groups to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and expand your network.

C) My Journey as Malakara

Creating a mala is an artisanal process that requires special skills and sensitivity. Some artisans, called Malakaras, specialize in making sacred malas. I am one of these passionate artisans. My travels took me to Gyaltran, a Tibetan region renowned for its expertise in mala craftsmanship. There, I learned traditional techniques from a Malakara master and was deeply influenced by the inspiring presence of the Kadan Songtsan Lamasery, located in Gyaltran.

Remember that becoming a mala maker takes time, practice, and patience. Be prepared to continue learning and perfecting your craft as you progress. By becoming a Malakara, you are helping to preserve an ancient spiritual tradition and offering others valuable tools for their spiritual practice.

Conclusion

Malas, as spiritual tools and devotional objects, possess a depth and meaning that transcends being simple strings of beads. Whether you are a spiritual practitioner seeking to deepen your meditation, a mala maker passionate about sacred craftsmanship, or simply someone who wishes to integrate more spirituality into their daily life, malas offer a multitude of benefits and uses. By understanding the origin, materials, meditation methods, and traditions associated with malas, you can enrich your spiritual practice and find a powerful tool for focus, connection, and personal growth.

Becoming a Malakara means embracing a centuries-old tradition and contributing to its preservation and transmission. It is also an invitation to creativity, exploration, and a deep commitment to the spiritual path. As a mala maker, you have the power to positively influence the lives of others by offering them sacred tools for their meditative and spiritual practice.
"Om Mani Padme Hum!"