Buddhist Mala necklaces are becoming increasingly popular. Traditionally each necklace has 108 beads and one larger end-bead called a Dorje with a bell. The dorje (thunderbolt) represents skill and compassion, and the bell represents wisdom and emptiness. Together they symbolize wisdom and compassion – and the Three Jewels, or Buddha, the doctrine, and the community.
Mala Beads Mala beads originate from the Hindu religion. Those who converted to Buddhism during its birth, brought this devotional practice with them. The prayer beads of a mala necklace are a meditative tool, used to gain merit on the path to enlightenment. Driving away evil and filling you and all beings with tranquillity and inner-peace.
The story of the beads' origin is "Sakyamuni", the founder of Buddhism. He taught king Vaidunya to thread 108 seeds of the Bodhi tree on a string, and while passing them between his fingers to repeat? 'Hail to the Buddha, the law, and the congregation'. Others believe the 108 beads on a mala represent the sinful desires that one must overcome to reach enlightenment or nirvana.
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