The Use of Beads in Prayers
Most people recognize a variation of these prayer beads among today's newest fashion accessories; they carry a far deeper significance in the Buddhist culture. For the Buddhist mala beads, represent a meditative tool. Their specific purpose may vary for individuals, but the beads enhance 'goodness' and diminish 'toxins'. The purpose of the Mala for the Buddhist perspective is to drive away evil and fill you with peace and bliss. Because of the nature of Buddhism, this material object is used as an accomplice for gaining merit on the path to enlightenment.

The origin of mala beads is rooted in the Hindu religion. Individuals, who converted from the Hindu faith to Buddhism, transferred this practice with them and it soon became a part of the Buddhist faith.

Traditionally, there are 108 beads on a strand of mala prayer beads. This number represents the number of sinful desires that one must overcome to reach enlightenment. Monks usually have mala beads with 108 beads, where as a layperson may have a strand of 30 or 40 beads. This difference in length is explained by understanding each person's distance traveled on the path to enlightenment. Sellers of mala beads have suggested that individuals just beginning this prayer ritual begin with a shorter strand of beads.

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Variety exists for the style, color, and material composition. Differences in the popularity and use of mala beads also exist cross-culturally. Typically, monks' mala beads are made of wood from the Bodhi tree. In Tibet, mala strands often contain parts of semi-precious stones; the most valued strands are made of bones of holy men or lamas. Typically, there are 108 beads divided by 3 large beads. The end pieces on these strands are "djore" (a thunderbolt) and "drilbu" (the bell). These pieces represent the Three Jewels, Buddha, the doctrine, and the community. In Japan, mala prayer beads are popular at funerals, weddings, and other ceremonies. Mala beads in Japan typically are 112 in number and made of wood, the most coveted strands are blessed by monks. In Korea, the use of mala beads has been extensive. Their popularity diminished during the time when Buddhism was banned from the country (1392-1910). Korean mala strands usually include two large beads, which are used during special prayers.

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Links :
About Prayer Beads
History of Prayer Beads © IBRAG