<Tr> <Th> Sanskrit </Th> <Td> mālā </Td> </Tr> <P> Buddhist prayer beads or malas (Sanskrit: mālā "garland") are a traditional tool used to count the number of times a mantra is recited, breaths while meditating, counting prostrations, or the repetitions of a buddha's name . They are similar to other forms of prayer beads used in various world religions and therefore the term "Buddhist rosary" also appears . </P> <P> Conventional Buddhist tradition counts the beads at 108, signifying the mortal desires of mankind . The number is attributed to the Mokugenji Sutra wherein Shakyamuni Buddha instructed King Virudhaka to make such beads and recite the Three Jewels of Buddhism . In later years, various Buddhist sects would either retain the number of beads, or divide them into consecutive twos, fours, for brevity or informality . A decorative tassel is sometimes attached to the beads, flanked by talismans or amulets depending on one's local tradition . Because prayer beads are often painted in pigment, various traditional schools attribute a consecration ritual by the Sangha to the beads, to "open the eyes" for the purpose of achieving Enlightenment unique to the Karma of each believer . </P> <P> Malas are used for keeping count while reciting, chanting, or mentally repeating a mantra or the name or names of a deity . This sādhanā (practice) is known in Sanskrit as japa . Malas are typically made with 18, 27, 54 or 108 beads . </P>

How many beads are in a mala bracelet