Japa Mala (Rosary)

Japa mala is said to be the most sacred of all the objects that have been used in worship. Millions of people all over the world use Japa mala (Rosary)for their prayers. It is an unbreakable thread made out of Rudraksha beads or Tulsi beads which are strung together in a set format. The number of beads present in Rudraksha Japamala or Tulsi Japamala can vary from 11 to 108 beads. The word ‘Japa’ means repetition or recitation and refers to the use of these beads for prayer and the silent repetition of the names and mantras in the faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. This Mala or Rosary comes in many forms which are worn around the neck, draped over the shoulders, or even carried in a small bag with one hand while reciting mantras. The purpose of using this rosary is to help keep track of the count when reciting a mantra. Different types of beads are used to string the prayer chain in accordance with one’s ability and convenience.