How to Chant with a Japa Mala: 108 Beads, Sumeru, Finger Rules and Choosing a Mala
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How to chant with a japa mala: the rule of 108 beads and the sumeru, which fingers to use, tulsi, rudraksha and other malas, and an easy way to count without one.
A japa mala has 108 beads and one additional larger bead called the sumeru or meru. One full round of the mala is counted as 108 chants. There are a few traditional rules that keep chanting with a mala orderly and focused.
**Key Takeaways** - One mala = 108 chants, and the sumeru bead marks the start and end - The mala is turned with the thumb and middle finger (the ring finger in some traditions), and the index finger is not used - On reaching the sumeru the mala isn't crossed over; it is turned around and moved back - The mala is chosen by your deity, such as tulsi for Vishnu-Krishna and rudraksha for Shiva
How to Chant with a Mala
- 1.Sit on a steady seat in a quiet place. Facing east or north is considered auspicious by tradition.
- 2.Hold the mala in your right hand. Don't let it hang below the navel.
- 3.Begin with the bead right next to the sumeru.
- 4.Move each bead between the thumb and middle finger while chanting one mantra.
- 5.When you complete 108 beads and reach the sumeru, one mala is done.
- 6.For the next mala, don't cross the sumeru. Turn the mala around in your hand and continue in the opposite direction.
Finger Rules While Turning the Mala
Tradition regards touching or turning the mala with the index finger (the first finger beside the thumb) as forbidden. The thumb and middle finger are used, and in some sampradayas the thumb and ring finger. Keeping the mala in a gomukhi (a cloth bag) while chanting, to keep it from others' sight, is also a tradition.
Which Mala for Whom?
| Mala | Usually for |
|---|---|
| Tulsi | Vishnu and Krishna devotees, the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra |
| Rudraksha | Shiva worship, Om Namah Shivaya |
| Sandalwood | General chanting, Vishnu-Krishna |
| Crystal (sphatik) | General chanting, Goddess worship |
| Lotus seed (kamalgatta) | Lakshmi worship |
Choose the mala by your ishta. For the tulsi mala read What is a Tulsi Mala, and for rudraksha The Importance of Rudraksha, where how to wear it is also explained.
Three Kinds of Japa
Tradition describes japa as of three kinds:
- Vachik: chanting aloud
- Upanshu: moving the lips and chanting softly so only you can hear
- Manasik: chanting only in the mind
You can follow whichever method suits your comfort and concentration.
Why 108?
The mathematical, astronomical and yogic reasons given for 108 beads are covered in Why Is a Mantra Chanted Exactly 108 Times. Many people also use a shorter mala of 27 or 54 beads, where several rounds equal 108.
What If You Don't Have a Mala?
Carrying a mala everywhere isn't always possible. This site's naam jap counter is an easy way to keep count online. To decide how much to chant each day, read How many naam jap should you do daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many beads does a japa mala have?
A japa mala has 108 beads and one larger sumeru bead. One full round counts as 108 chants.
Which finger should be used to turn the mala?
The thumb and middle finger, or the thumb and ring finger in some sampradayas. Using the index finger is traditionally regarded as forbidden.
What is the sumeru and why isn't it crossed?
The sumeru is the larger bead marking the start and end. By tradition it isn't crossed; when one mala is complete the mala is turned around and moved back.
Which mala is for whom?
A tulsi mala is usually chosen for Vishnu-Krishna, rudraksha for Shiva and lotus seed for Lakshmi worship.