A japamala is a string of prayer beads used in spiritual practices, especially in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, for meditation, prayer, and counting mantras.

All japamalas have 108 beads, which are used to count the repetition of mantras.

But what is the significance of this number?

According to Dharma traditions, the number 108 represents the types of afflictions of the mind that are the seed of suffering.

This number is reached by counting the six doors through which sensations enter our existence: the five senses plus the ego, the doorway to memory and desire.

These six sensations can produce a reaction that is pleasant, painful or neutral. Six multiplied by three gives 18.

Now, if we locate these mental stimuli on a timeline — past, present or future — we get 54 combinations of affliction.

The number 108 is reached by identifying whether these 54 afflictions exist outside in the matrix of reality or only inside your own mind.

When meditating with your mala, pass through all these combinations to review the afflictions from which we need to detach in order to achieve healing and enlightenment.

May peace be with you.  NAMASTE