Skull made of bones, natural color, 108 pearls
The mala pearl necklace is mainly used to count mantras. Similar to the rosary. Pearls made of (semi) precious stones, pearls, bodhi seeds or wood can serve various purposes, such as counting every kind of mantras or other forms of prayer, prostration, walking tours and so on. The string is the same for each mala and should consist of nine threads, symbolizing the Buddha Vajradhara and the eight bodhisattvas. The larger pearl at the end stands for wisdom, the realization of the uttermost emptiness, and the cylindrical bead on top of the large pearl symbolizes the emptiness itself. Together they symbolize the victory over all enemies.
The 108-pearl mala is used during recitation or when chanting mantras. 108 is a magic number for any purpose. It is important that our thoughts are pure while we are chanting or reciting the mantra. Then we thereby bring into practical application secret powers that can further our development. A mantra is a collection of letters from the alphabet. The effect arises from the constant repetition of the mantra; it becomes more profound the longer you continue the recitation. The sound that is produced during the recitation is essential. This sound creates a unique spiritual impression on the person reciting. A mantra is said to be like a human being; it develops through various stages that one must go through until one reaches the final effect, namely the purification of mental impressions. There are different mantras with specific, inherent powers; these are transmitted by a master. These mantras are the so-called "Siddha Mantras". Some malas have two counting aids in the form of a vajra and a bell. In Buddhism, this method and wisdom symbolize the male and female principle. Animal bones symbolize the ephemeral nature of all beings. These counting aids are used during a retreat that involves counting 100,000 mantras.
Length: total length of the chain 120 cm
