<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> 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>
how many beads are in a mala bracelet
how many beads are in a mala bracelet
108
108