Historical information

Malas are used to help focus awareness and concentration during spiritual practice of reciting mantras. Traditionally made from wood, bone, seeds from the Bodhi tree or gemstones. They may include silk or cotton tassels.

Significance

Malas are used like a Christian rosary, often supporting the counting of mantras and held whilst reciting prayers. A long mala is a set of 108 strung beads, plus a Guru bead which serves as a tactile reminder of the conclusion of the current round of chanting mantra. The guru bead represents the relationship between the student and the guru or spiritual teacher. The 108 beads signify the 108 afflictions to be overcome and the 108 Buddhas.

Physical description

Long mala with a dorje on a string with ten beads, and a half dorje (or bell) on a string with ten beads. After each dorje is a yellow tassel. The guru bead is slightly larger and is followed by knotted thread.