Why 108? The Science and Spirituality Behind the Number

A Sacred Number

Whether you practice Yoga, Buddhism, or Hinduism, you've likely encountered the number 108. Malas have 108 beads, mantras are chanted 108 times, and holy sites often have 108 steps. But why?

Astronomical Connection

The ancient Vedic sages were master astronomers. The distance between the Earth and the Sun is approximately 108 times the Sun's diameter. Similarly, the distance between the Earth and the Moon is about 108 times the Moon's diameter. The number 108 connects us to the cosmos.

The Heart Chakra

In Ayurveda and yogic science, there are said to be 108 "marma" points (vital points) in the body where consciousness intersects with matter. Additionally, it is said that there are 108 energy lines (nadis) converging to form the heart chakra.

Sanskrit Alphabet

The Sanskrit language has 54 letters. Each letter has a masculine (Shiva) and feminine (Shakti) energy. 54 multiplied by 2 equals 108.

Completing the Circle

When you chant on a 108-bead mala, you are symbolically completing a journey around the universe and returning to the center—your spiritual heart. It represents a complete cycle of dedication.

Use our Digital Japa Counter to easily track your 108 recitations without needing a physical mala.