108: The Number of the Cosmos

The number 108 is considered special, sacred, and mystical by many cultures, especially Eastern cultures. It is common in Hinduism, Vedic teachings, Daoism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and many yoga practices. We will take a look at where this number shows up and try to understand why it is considered so important.

Prayer Beads

The use of prayer beads spans cultures and traditions the world over. It is one of the few religious symbols that is common across most major religions. What we call "prayer beads" can actually take three forms (one of which is not even made of beads):

1. Necklace Prayer Beads - these are most common
2. Wrist (Bracelet) Prayer Beads - these are smaller version of the necklace variety
3. Prayer Rope - these are ropes or fabrics with knots tied in intervals, which serve the same purpose as beads.