Monk prayer beads are similar to most other spiritual beads used across religions and spiritualities. These malas are known as “threngwa” in Tibetan. Prayer beads help you focus on your chants when you’re meditating. They also help you keep count of the number of times you chanted a sacred verse or the name(s) of a deity. Here are three key things you should know about prayer beads:
Uses of prayer beads
One of the major reasons why monk prayer beads are used is to improve your focus and awareness during meditation. Long malas consist of 108 beads along with one guru or “mother” bead. This special bead signifies the relationship between a spiritual teacher and the student. A single mala is ideal for the recitation of a spiritual verse 100 times. Following this, you can do many more recitations so that your focus is sharpened. In Tibetan Buddhism—and many other religions—prayer beads consisting of 108 counting beads are held while meditating. You might also notice various marker beads, which divide the mala into quadrants.
Significance of the number 108
Most Eastern religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism consider the number 108 sacred. For the same reason, monk prayer beads usually have 108 beads and one guru bead. Reciting the mantra 108 times on the mala is said to help you focus on the meaning and sound of each word, thereby enabling you to have a more fulfilling and enriching meditation session.
Taking care of prayer beads
The most important way to care for any spiritual object, such as a book or instrument, is to prevent them from touching the ground. So make sure that the prayer beads are placed on a surface that is higher up from the ground. Remember to tidy them regularly with a clean cloth. Make sure to remove your prayer beads before bathing as moisture can weaken their cord. It is also ideal to remove the beads before going to sleep to avoid accidentally breaking them. For safekeeping, place the prayer beads in small pouches. This way, they are protected at all times.
Prayers beads are spiritual tools that have been in existence for thousands of years. Two of the oldest origins of these beads are India and Nepal, the two places in the world that have been practicing meditation for the longest time. However, now monk prayer beads can be found across the world.
Purpose of prayer beads
Several people use prayer beads to attain some peace and calm in their everyday lives. Malas made out of these beads are used while meditating and during prayers. Even novices who do not have much experience or knowledge about religion or spirituality can meditate using prayer beads.
Each mala contains a set number of beads (usually 108). These beads represent spiritual identity and connection with the universe. During meditation, every movement of the bead represents one chant or breath taken. This process helps in keeping your mind focused and creates positive energy.
What are prayer beads made of?
Traditionally, prayer beads are made using wood, plant seed, and other similar organic materials, which are shaped or carved into a round form. Rudraksha seeds were originally used to make these beads, as they were known to possess spiritual and healing power. In the same way, Bodhi seeds are also sacred (the term “bodhi” refers to enlightenment”.)
In Tibetan culture, monk prayer beads made from carved bone are a common sight, and they stand for compassion and impermanence. Prayer beads made from wood can be chosen if you want to create a spiritual connection with Earth. During meditation, wooden beads promote mindfulness and grounding energy.
How to meditate with prayer beads
You do not need to gain full knowledge of prayers and rituals in order to meditate holding prayer beads. Just clear your mind of all thoughts and sit peacefully for around 15 minutes. Gently hold the mala in your hand. You will notice that one bead is larger than all others. This bead is called the guru bead. Use your thumb and index finger to lightly hold the bead next to the guru bead. Slowly, move the beads through your fingertips while chanting the spiritual verses, prayer, or mantra. When you reach the guru bead, it indicates the completion of one full cycle. Following this, when you feel ready, slowly phase out of meditation by sitting in peace for a few minutes.
Since the name of a deity or prayer is repeated several times, prayer beads act as tools that help you keep a count of these chants. Monk prayer beads help you improve your focus during spiritual practices. Depending on their properties and specific purpose, there are several types of beads used in each mala. Some of them are as follows:
Amethyst
This stone is known to balance your intellectual, emotional, and physical well-being. It is the bead of contentment and spirituality.
Jade
This stone is known to uplift your spirits. It also fulfills your wish to live a longer and more successful life.
Moonstone
Moonstone focuses on reflection, introspection, and balance. It can help you handle your spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental well-being by understanding the highs and lows of life in an effective manner.
Turquoise
This gem is known to have a peaceful, soothing energy. Not only does it help you gain peace, but it also has healing and protective properties. It is known to help you battle a gamut of physical ailments.
Garnet
Garnet improves your creative energy and internal fire. It can also help you gain a renewed energy for life and deal with abandonment and belonging issues.
Malachite
This stone empowers you to take ownership of your actions. It guides you spiritually and keeps negative energies away.
Lapis lazuli
Lapis lazuli is known to give mental endurance, clarity, and mental objectivity. It helps you manage your emotions more efficiently.
Tiger eye
This stone can give you clarity and help you find sense in scattered thoughts. It can make you grounded and practical.
Once you understand the effects of each stone, you can choose the right beads that match your personality and needs. While choosing a bead, you may be more inclined to buy a particular bead, because its energy attracts you. A major part of choosing the right mala bead is using your intuition. So tap into that gut feeling while buying these beads for yourself. You can also use these beads in bracelets instead of opting for full-length malas. These bracelets can be worn around your wrist so that you can easily use them wherever you go.