Tuesday 11 August 2015

Significance of Ganesh Pendant and Buddhist Malas in Tibetan Culture

There are variety of symbols and ornaments used in Tibetan culture and each has a unique significance. Some popular symbols include Ganesh pendant, Buddhist malas, Buddhist bracelets, prayer boxes, gemstones, Om symbol and much more. These ornaments are well known for their rich historical antecedents and usefulness in the spiritual world. There are some facts that make these ornaments everyone's favorite and popular items of Buddhism.




Ganesh Pendant: Ganesh is known as the 'Remover of Obstacles' and also the Lord of Good fortune and because of many attributes, he is widely worshiped by many people. People wear Ganesh jewelry to express their devotion and as a symbol of good luck. The symbolism of elephant-headed God primarily lies with patience, honor, stability, and strength.


Why People Wear Ganesh Ornaments?


From the Hindu and Buddhism mythology, Ganesh is the God of luck, fortune, wisdom, power and protection. Ganesh jewelry have been popular from decades and it is said that wearing these ornaments is like a blessing on whatever you do. Some also use spiritual pendants as amulets or protection charms as they believe that wearing such kind of ornaments protect them from evil spirits and all negativities. A pendant is normally worn around the neck so that it can protect the heart and the entire body. Ganesh is portrayed in different ways such as standing, crawling, dancing, or seated and you can choose any image to wear as a pendant.

Buddhist Malas: A mala, also known as Threngwa or trenwa, is a very sacred object for Tibetan Buddhists as well as Hindus. Since ancient times malas have been used to chant mantras during deity yoga and offer prayers. It is believed that these strands get charged with the energy of mantras and, therefore, treated with great care and devotion. These prayer beads have great significance in Tibetan communities all over the world.


Why People Use Buddhist Malas?


Since chanting mantras and meditation are a common part of Buddhism, the Buddhists need something to stay focused. Therefore, Buddhist use malas to recite mantras and stay focused while they perform Yoga or meditation. The most common type of mala people use to count mantras is a string of 108 beads, and made of either precious or semi-precious stones. Reciting a mantra on each bead means they have completed 100 mantra recitations. It is believed that using malas to meditate  boosts concentration power and, therefore, a lot of students also use them to focus more on their studies. There are many types of strings, from crystal and bone to sandalwood or made from Rudraksha seed.

Caring for Your Spiritual Pendants and Malas
Due to the spiritual significance of Ganesh pendant and Buddhist malas, it is very important to take a good care of these ornaments. When not using your strings, you can hang them on a clean place or keep in a bookshelf. It is all up to you that you treat and respect your spiritual ornaments….

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