The Care and Feeding of a Japa Mala

The 108-bead Hindu prayer strand, or japa mala, is considered inseparable from the deity it is used to invoke. As a result, respect accorded to the deity is traditionally accorded also to the mala. For example, care is made to never let the mala touch the floor or another person, after which it would need to be ritually cleansed.

When treated with care, over time it gathers particles of shakti (living spiritual energy) as it is chanted with devotion. It grows in spiritual potency by drawing energy not only from its owner, but some people believe also from the deity being worshipped.

There is a variety of opinion about whether, and how often, to wash malas, with some saying the shakti accumulates best when undisturbed. Others maintain that a mala’s subtle magnetism grows best when it is periodically cleaned or at least rinsed. However all agree that it must be energetically cleansed after any event that brings it into contact with coarse or negative energies, such as chanting while upset, extensive travel, casual handling without respect, etc.

Further, chanting prayers or mantras by turning a mala is also protected from the mundane world in various ways. Some Hindu sects suggest (or require) a devotee revolve their mala inside a special bag made specifically for japa (repetition). The purpose is to keep the action out of sight of others and thus it stays free of mental impressions.

Over time, a mala can become like a cherished friend on the path of spiritual awakening.