Mala/bracelet with 21 shell beads, with the OMPMH mantra carved in every bead.
The string of beads is mainly used to count repeated mantras. So actually, it serves the same purpose as a rosary. Beads made of semi-precious stones, pearls, shell, bodhi seeds or wood may serve all kinds of goals, like counting any mantra, or other forms of prayer, bows, walk-rounds and such. The cord is the same for every mala, and should be made of nine threads, symbolising Buddha Vajradhara and the eight Bodhisattvas. The larger bead at the end stands for wisdom, realising emptiness, and the cylindrical bead on top of the large bead symbolises the void itself. Together, they symbolise the triumph over all adversities.
It is important that our thoughts are pure while reciting or singing the mantra. Mantra is the practical use of secret powers which may help our progress. Mantra means a collection of letters from the alphabet. The effect will manifest by repeating the mantra over and over again; this becomes more profound as one continues the recitation. Essential is the sound that is produced while reciting. This sound creates a unique spiritual imprint on the person who is reciting. They say that a mantra is like a human being; there are various stages to go through before reaching the final effect: “Purification of mental impressions.” There are various mantras with an inherent potential power; these may only be personally transferred from Master to initiate. They are the so-called “Siddha Mantras”.
