Why Are There 108 Beads on a Mala?

A mala, or set of beads used for counting mantras during meditation, typically consists of 108 beads. This number has profound significance in various spiritual and philosophical traditions, though no single explanation is universally accepted. Here are some reasons that may shed light on why 108 is the number of choice for malas:

1. Numerical Significance

9 times 12: Both 9 and 12 are considered spiritually significant numbers. When multiplied, they equal 108. Interestingly, 1 + 0 + 8 equals 9, reinforcing the connection between the numbers.
Powers of 1, 2, and 3: If we calculate the powers of 1, 2, and 3—1^1 = 1, 2^2 = 4, and 3^3 = 27—the result of multiplying them together (1 x 4 x 27) is 108.

2. Spiritual and Physical Interpretations

Desires and Delusions: It is said that humans experience 108 earthly desires and 108 delusions, symbolizing the journey of overcoming ignorance.
Heart Chakra: There are believed to be 108 energy lines that converge at the heart chakra, with one of these lines leading to spiritual awakening.
Sanskrit Alphabet: The Sanskrit alphabet contains 54 letters, each with masculine and feminine aspects (Shiva and Shakti). Therefore, 54 x 2 equals 108, connecting language to the mala’s design.

3. Astrological and Cosmic Connections

Astrology: In astrology, there are 12 zodiac signs and 9 planetary houses, and 12 x 9 equals 108. Similarly, some cultures view the number 108 as relating to celestial bodies, such as the ratio between the Earth, Moon, and Sun.
Planets and Houses: Just as there are 12 astrological houses and 9 planets, multiplying them also results in 108.

4. Religious and Cultural Significance

Hinduism: 108 is often linked to the number of deities in Hinduism. Some say that each deity has 108 names.
Buddhism: Buddhists may carve 108 small Buddhas onto a walnut or ring a bell 108 times to celebrate the New Year. The number also reflects the stages of spiritual progress, with 108 steps on the journey toward enlightenment.
Islam and Jainism: In Islam, the number 108 is used to refer to God. Similarly, in Jainism, it is said that there are 108 virtues associated with holy figures.
Sikhism: The Sikh tradition uses a mala made of 108 knots instead of beads, which is tied into a string of wool.

5. Numerical Harmony and Symbolism

1, 0, and 8: The digits 1, 0, and 8 also hold symbolic meaning: 1 stands for God or higher truth, 0 represents emptiness or wholeness, and 8 symbolizes infinity.
Breathing and Meditation: The ancient practice of pranayama suggests that the ideal number of breaths for a meditative state is 108, symbolizing a balance between solar and lunar energies. Read about the mystical stone of spiritual and material blessings in our article.

6. Extra Beads and Their Purpose

The 108 + 1 Bead: The mala traditionally includes an additional bead, known as the “meru” or “guru bead,” which marks the start and end of the mala. This bead is not counted during mantra repetition but serves as a guide and symbol of the spiritual teacher.

7. Mathematical and Scientific Parallels

Chemistry: While 115 elements are known on the periodic table, many of those beyond 100 exist only briefly in laboratories, with about 100 elements existing naturally on Earth, which ties back to the number 108 in an interesting way.

In conclusion, the number 108 is deeply embedded in the fabric of various spiritual practices and scientific phenomena, representing harmony, completeness, and the journey toward enlightenment. Whether linked to the cosmic, physical, or spiritual world, the number 108 serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things.

For a more detailed explanation of this sacred number and its significance across cultures, you can explore its standardization and historical context.