The Meaning of the Number 108

The number 108 is considered a sacred number and of great spiritual significance in various traditions:

• 108 Repetitions: By completing the cycle of 108 beads with the repetition of a mantra, it is believed that one reaches a higher stage of consciousness and activates the essence of the mantra.

• Totality of Existence: It represents the totality of existence and the connection of the human being with the cosmos.

• Vedic References:

  • There are 108 sacred texts in the Yoga tradition.

  • Vedic mathematicians calculated that the diameter of the Sun is about 108 times the diameter of the Earth.

• Guru/Meru Bead: The Japa Mala has 108 smaller beads, plus one larger bead (called the Guru or Meru), which marks the beginning and the end of the count. The practitioner should never cross over the Guru bead.

7 Chakra Japamala: Energy Alignment

The inclusion of the 7 Chakras in this Japa Mala means that it incorporates stones or beads with colors and vibrations corresponding to the seven main energy centers of the body.

Chakras are energy vortices that govern physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual stability. When a chakra is imbalanced, it can affect health and well-being.

The 7 Chakra Japa Mala is usually composed of a segment of beads that represents the chakra colors, with the aim of harmonizing these energy centers:

• Root Chakra (Básico): Focuses on Survival and Security (color Red/Black).

• Sacral Chakra (Sacro): Focuses on Emotions and Creativity (color Orange).

• Solar Plexus Chakra (Plexo Solar): Focuses on Personal Power and Willpower (color Yellow).

• Heart Chakra (Cardíaco): Focuses on Love and Compassion (color Green/Pink).

• Throat Chakra (Laríngeo): Focuses on Communication and Expression (color Light Blue).

• Brow Chakra (3rd Eye/Frontal): Focuses on Intuition and Wisdom (color Indigo/Dark Blue).

• Crown Chakra (Coronário): Focuses on Spirituality and Divine Connection (color Violet/White).

Benefits in Meditation

The practice of meditation with this type of Japa Mala is recommended for:

• Energy Alignment: Harmonizing the seven basic chakras.

• Concentration: Keeping the mind focused on the repetition of the mantra (Japa) or on the breath.

• Well-being: Warding off negative feelings and promoting internal harmony, vitality, and peace.