Mantras
Why Are Mantras Chanted 108 Times?
108 beads on a mala, 108 names of the divine, 108 repetitions of a mantra. Here is why this number is considered so sacred, and how to use a japa mala.
Open any mantra playlist and you will see it again and again: 108 times. A japa mala has 108 beads, deities have 108 names, and temples often have 108 steps. Why this number?
Five reasons 108 is sacred
- Planets and signs: 12 zodiac signs multiplied by 9 grahas (planets) gives 108 - the whole sky in one number.
- Lunar mansions: 27 nakshatras, each with 4 padas (quarters), also make 108.
- Sun, Moon and Earth: the distance from the Earth to the Sun is roughly 108 times the Sun's diameter, and the distance to the Moon roughly 108 times the Moon's diameter.
- Scripture: the traditional collection of principal Upanishads lists 108 texts.
- Wholeness: 1 stands for the One, 0 for emptiness, and 8 for infinity - together, the complete spiritual journey.
How to use a japa mala
- Hold the mala in your right hand, draped over the middle finger.
- Start at the bead next to the larger meru (guru) bead.
- Use your thumb to move one bead towards you with each repetition. Traditionally the index finger is not used.
- When you reach the meru again, do not cross it. Turn the mala around and continue in the other direction for the next round.
Chant along: Govindaya Namo Namah
Radha Mantra - Shyama Pranadhika, 108 times.
Start with a small, steady practice
One round of 108 takes only a few minutes. Choose one mantra - Govindaya Namo Namah for Lord Krishna or our Radha Mantra - and chant it at the same time every day. The number keeps the mind busy just enough that it stops wandering, and that is where peace begins.
