Malas (otherwise known as Buddhist prayer beads) are often used to help focus meditation practice. Mala roughly translates to garland, and Malas are used in a similar fashion to Rosary beads. For instance, one could recite a short mantra or prayer while moving each bead through their fingers. I am partial to saying “Sat Nam” at each of the 108 prayer beads. This is Sanskrit (which I do not speak) and is known as a seed mantra in some traditions. It roughly translates as “I am Truth” or “Truth is my essence.” It helps me come back to the truth of myself as I meditate.

Librarians choose the material for the 108 prayer beads (27 in each section of the Mala) based on what energy the user might need in a given moment. You’ll notice the Malas in this collection have gemstone prayer beads, each with a different meaning or vibration. The number 108 and its meaning differs between Hindu, Buddhist, and different yoga traditions, many of which use Malas with this number of beads. We would suggest doing research for your own deeper meaning if the number of beads is important to you. We at the Library create jewelry for Heroines, so we are partial to the interpretation that 108 is the number of names for the Divine Feminine.

I, for my part, recite “Sat Nam” at each gemstone bead and variations of my own personal mantras at the counting beads and Guru bead, both of which are rendered in handmade sterling silver in Malas featured here. The Guru bead is the largest bead just before the tassel. The tassel represents the lotus flower which is a symbol of the higher consciousness. Praying my Mala brings me peace and calms my soul in a way that no other form of prayer or meditation has ever accomplished. I hope the same for you.

Library Bijou packages each Mala with a hand thrown pottery vessel, distinct to each individual Mala. During the creation of each strand of beads, intention is focused on the qualities believed to be inherent in the stone from which it is made. It is our hope that meditation with these Mala can bring you whatever it is that you need to find peace, and that displaying your Mala in its included vessel will remind you of your practice as you go about your everyday life.

The light in me honors the light in you. Namaste.