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Mala - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Mala refers to a string of beads, often used in prayer or meditation, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. It helps practitioners count mantras or breaths during spiritual practices.

mala

/ˈmɑlə/ /ˈmɑːlə/

Definition:

A string of beads used in prayer, especially in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Synonyms:

rosary, prayer beads, chaplet

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

disorder, chaos

Common Collocations:

Buddhist mala, Hindu mala, prayer mala, mala beads, wear a mala

Derivatives:

malas (plural), mala-making (compound)

Usage Tips:

Use "mala" to refer to prayer beads; avoid confusing it with the Spanish word for "bad."

Common Phrases:

mala beads, count your mala, mala meditation

Etymology:

From Sanskrit "mālā," meaning "garland" or "necklace."

Examples:

  • 1. She bought a wooden mala for meditation.
  • 2. He carefully counted each bead on his mala during prayer.
  • 3. The monk gifted her a handmade mala from India.
  • 4. Her mala broke, scattering beads across the floor.

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