Naam Jaap

How to Use a Japa Mala: A Simple Beginner's Guide

By Naam Jaap Editorial Team · July 5, 2026 · 4 min read

A japa mala is the traditional tool for counting mantra repetitions during naam jaap. It keeps your count without breaking your focus, so the mind can stay on the divine name. If you've just got your first mala, here's exactly how to use it.

What is a japa mala?

A japa mala is a string of 108 beads, plus one extra, larger bead called the guru bead (or meru / sumeru) — making 109 in total. The 108 beads are for counting; the guru bead marks the beginning and end of a round.

Malas are traditionally made from rudraksha, tulsi, sandalwood or gemstone beads, often chosen to suit the deity or mantra.

How to hold a japa mala

There is a simple, respectful way to hold the mala:

• Use your right hand.
• Drape the mala over your middle finger.
• Move each bead with your thumb, pulling it toward you.
• Avoid using the index finger to touch the beads — the index finger represents the ego, so it is traditionally kept away (often extended outward).

Many people rest the hand near the heart, or use a gomukhi (a small cloth bag) to hold the mala while chanting.

How to use the mala, step by step

1. Start at the bead next to the guru bead. Hold that first bead between your thumb and middle finger.
2. Chant your mantra once for that bead — aloud, whispered, or mentally.
3. Move to the next bead with your thumb and chant again. Continue, one repetition per bead.
4. Complete all 108 beads. When you reach the guru bead, you have finished one round (mala).
5. Do not cross the guru bead. To begin the next round, turn the mala around and go back the way you came — the guru bead is never counted or skipped over.

A few gentle rules

• Keep a steady pace. Don't rush to finish; the quality of attention matters more than speed.
• Return when the mind wanders. Simply come back to the mantra and the next bead.
• Treat the mala with respect. Keep it clean, don't let it touch the floor, and store it in a clean place or a gomukhi bag.
• Keep it personal. A mala used for your own japa is traditionally not shared.

What if you don't have a mala?

A mala is helpful but not essential. You can count on your finger segments, or simply chant for a set time. Many people also use a digital counter — like the Naam Jaap app — which keeps your count and rounds for you, so you can chant anywhere without losing your place.

Frequently asked questions

Which hand should I use for a japa mala?

Use your right hand, draping the mala over the middle finger and moving beads with the thumb. Avoid touching the beads with the index finger.

How many beads are on a japa mala?

A japa mala has 108 counting beads plus one guru bead, making 109 in total. One full round of 108 repetitions is called a mala.

What is the guru bead?

The guru bead is the larger bead that marks the start and end of a round. You never cross or count it — instead, you turn the mala around to begin the next round.

Can I use the same mala for different mantras?

It's best to keep one mala for one mantra or practice, as it becomes charged with that intention over time — but there is no strict prohibition.