maala

Maala, often transliterated mala, is a string of beads used in Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and other Indian spiritual traditions for counting repetitions of prayers, mantras, or breaths during meditation. The term originates from Sanskrit maalaa, meaning garland or necklace, and in practice the mala functions as a focused tool to support repetitive recitation.

A typical mala consists of 108 beads, though variations with 27, 54, or 81 beads are common. A separate guru bead marks the starting and ending point; practitioners usually do not count the guru bead in the recitation and instead reverse direction or pause there. Beads are often moved one by one with the thumb or middle finger after each recitation. The tassel attached to some malas symbolizes illumination or the connection to the source of teachings.

Materials vary widely. Common choices include sandalwood, tulsi (holy basil) wood, and seeds such as rudraksha or bodhi; gemstones and bone beads are also used. The choice of material can carry symbolic meaning or preferred vibration for the practitioner. Mala beads can be worn as jewelry when not in use, serving as a reminder to maintain mindfulness.

In contemporary practice, malas are used in japa or mantra meditation, breath counting, and mindfulness routines. They are also widely sold as fashion accessories. While 108 is a traditional standard, practitioners may adapt the bead count and design to suit personal or cultural preferences.