"Japa from the mala beads may invoke the energy of a deity; for example: by chanting the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' with a rudraksha mala, one connects with the energy of Shiva. In contrast, Buddhism focuses more on developing internal qualities of compassion, loving-kindness, or wisdom. The Buddhist practitioner, for instance, recites "Om Mani Padme Hum" over the mala thinking of how the gebis bhikshu Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig), the bodhisattva of compassion, bestows blessings. Both traditions recognize the divine or enlightened qualities but here, usually, in Hinduism, the deities often carry those qualities while Buddhism, on the other hand, concentrates on realizing in oneself the enlightened mind-states.
Material and Design Differences, the most notching point of difference is mainly in materials in what Hindu malas are generally made from. Such woods include rudraksha seeds, tulsi (holy basil) wood, or sandalwood. Each of these materials has some mythology and spiritual significance. For example, Rudraksha seeds are believed to have originated from the tears of Lord Shiva and are thought to help the wearer safeguard his or her life and attain clarity in spirituality. Tulsi wood is considered sacred to Vishnu and Krishna, signifying devotion and purity.
Hey, how are you? I train with males for Buddhist tradition and up to October 2023; I train. Whether using boshi seeds, sandalwood, or bone beads from other sources, a mala is often constructed to include a range, frequently including lotus seeds or other items that are symbolically linked to impermanence and the journey toward enlightenment. Theravada Buddhist malas are sometimes outfitted with small counters at regular intervals which mark the recitation of many mantras, these being very handy and much sought after by devotees who wish to say their mantras several hundreds of thousands or even millions during their whole lifetime.
