If you've browsed DharmaShop malas or a similar store, you've probably noticed that some malas and wrist malas have little knots tied between them. A lot of customers love the look but are curious of the meaning, so lets break that down together.
Functionality: Knots act as spacers between the beads, making it easier to finger each bead during meditation and keep track of your mantras. This separation prevents the beads from sliding freely, which can be distracting during meditation.
Durability: Knots secure the beads on the string. If the mala breaks, the individual beads are less likely to scatter, making it easier to restring them.
Symbolism: In some traditions, the knots themselves are imbued with symbolic meaning. They can represent momentary obstacles encountered on the path to enlightenment, which can be overcome through meditation and spiritual practice.
It's important to note that not all mala beads are knotted. This is a matter of personal preference and doesn't affect the overall meaning or purpose of the mala. We hope this helps!
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