108 Bead Gemstone Mala – Carnelian Our carnelian gemstone Mala, is a rosary containing 108 gemstone beads, finished off with a 9cm red tassel. This full sized Mala consists of 108 beads, a number of great importance and significance, particularly in the Hindu faith. The number 108 is derived from multiplying the 12 astrological houses by the 9 planets. Malas also have a Guru bead, or tassel, which reminds us of the teachers in our lives. Hindu tradition holds that the correct way to use a mala is with the right hand, with the thumb flicking one bead to the next, and with the mala draped over the middle finger. The index finger represents ego, the greatest impediment to Self-Realization, so it is considered best avoided (as with the ego) when chanting on a mala. Holding the Mala between the thumb and middle finger, the beads are passed through the finger and thumb one at a time, whilst a mantra is repeated silently or audibly, though silent mantras are believed to be the most powerful. The mantra is repeated until all 108 beads have been passed and the Guru tassel is reached, when the the Mala is reversed and the process is repeated. Mantras are used extensively in meditation, as a manner to draw the minds focus and quieten the “monkey mind” allowing the user to reach higher levels of mental and spiritual clarity. Length of beaded section: 60-80cm Length of Guru Tassel: 9cm Diameter of beads: Circa 6-8mm
