There are several properties that make a mala necklace authentic and a proper and effective tool for mantra meditation.
Has 108 beads
The proper number of counting beads in an authentic mala necklace is 108. There are a few reasons for this being the magic mala number. There are believed to be 108 earthly desires in mortals. The belief is that there are 108 energy lines entwining to form the heart chakra. (Chakras are at the main intersections of nadis, the energy lines along the spine.) It is also said there are 108 feelings – 36 feelings in the past, 36 feelings in the present and 36 feelings in the future.
Has a tassel
The tassel represents our connection to the Divine as it is the link between our meditation beads and Guru bead and holds all of the threads and beads together. It also represents the state of enlightenment and Turiya – the state between deep sleep, dream, and wakefulness. The tassel can be of many different colors, and the color can represent a specific deity or intention.
Has a guru bead
A mala actually contains 109 beads. The 109th bead is called the guru bead or meru bead. This bead symbolizes our Teacher, the Divine or God. When practicing our meditation, we must never cross over the Guru bead – as it would show extreme disrespect and is looked on as stepping over one’s teacher. Instead, you should turn the mala around 180 degrees and go back the way you came, in the reverse direction. When praying with your mala, you never cross over your guru bead. Since the Guru bead is separate to the rest of the mala, it represents the idea that our Teacher, God or Divine is beyond ourselves and our Universe. The Guru bead holds all the energy created in your meditation practice. This bead will not be used in counting during your intention recital and should never be passed over when reciting more than 1 round (108) mantras.
Has easy to count beads
An authentic mala necklace should contain beads that are easily counted. An easy to count size for small to medium sized hands is 6-8mm round. Larger hands will need larger sized beads, around 8-10mm round, to be able to easily count with a mantra meditation practice.
Genuine materials
A mala necklace can be made from many different types of beads. Traditionally rudraksha and bodhi seeds were used as well as tulsi, sandalwood, and rosewood. Semi-precious gemstones can also be used to make malas. Whatever materials used, make sure the beads are genuine and not made of plastic, glass or other fake materials.
Made by yogis
Ideally, an authentic mala necklace has been designed and handcrafted by people who practice mantra meditation. If you buy a cheap mala made in China, it is most likely made in a large oppressive factory and will need extensive energetic cleansing before use. We recommend you purchase your malas from a company that purifies and blesses the beads before shipping them out.
Vikata Yoga 