Significance of Mala
Synonyms: Garland, Rosary, Necklace, Beads
In Dutch: Mala; In German: Mala; In Finnish: Mala; In Spanish: Mala; In Swedish: Mala; In Malay: Mala; In French: Mala; In Portugese: Mala; In Italian: Mala; In Polish: Mala
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mala'
In Buddhism, Mala signifies two possibilities. It can be the dark blue consort of Akashagarbha, symbolizing devotion and spiritual richness. Alternatively, Mala might be a unique term, potentially referencing a specific teaching explored by the Bya Yul abbots.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The consort of Akashagarbha, depicted in dark blue, representing devotion and spiritual abundance.[1]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) An unusual reference, possibly indicating a specific teaching or concept discussed among the abbots of Bya Yul.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Mala'
In Hinduism, Mala primarily refers to the body's waste products (feces, urine, sweat, etc.) essential for health. It is a fundamental element alongside Dosha and Dhatu, whose balance is crucial. It can also represent accumulated impurities obscuring the self. Additionally, it can refer to a rosary used for meditation.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) These are the waste products of the body (feces, urine, sweat), which need to be eliminated efficiently for maintaining health.[3] (2) Mala is mentioned alongside Dosha and Dhatu as having its own Agni, suggesting that each of these components of the body possesses its own transformative energy.[4] (3) Mala is a fundamental aspect of bodily health, and Ayurveda states that the equilibrium of Dosha, Dhatu, Mala, and Agni is crucial in maintaining an individual's overall health.[5] (4) Malas are mentioned as elements that a physician should be acquainted with to diagnose any disease within the Ayurvedic framework.[6] (5) Mala are the waste products, and they are considered Ashraya (resident) for the Doshas, showing their involvement in the dynamics of vitiation and normalization processes.[7]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) Waste products or by-products of daily activities, like faeces, urine, and sweat, described in Ayurveda.[8] (2) Known as waste products, the normalcy or equilibrium state of these, along with other factors, signifies a healthy person according to Acharya Susrutha.[9] (3) Agni along with optimal state of Dosha, Dhatu and this plays a vital role to govern bodily functions smoothly.[10] (4) It is one of the terms used in Ayurveda to describe the organization of the body.[11] (5) Must know about the mala in the body for Ayurveda practitioner before practicing Ayurveda.[12]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The waste products of the body, such as feces, urine, sweat, menstrual fluid, and bile, which are crucial for maintaining bodily balance.[13] (2) Refers to the waste material of the body, which can be either harmful or healthful depending on its state.[14]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) It is a concept in Ayurveda, which is foundational to the system's approach to diseases and health, along with Dosha and Dhatu.[15] (2) This refers to the waste products of the body and their functions which keep the body together, along with doshas and dhatus.[16]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) Waste products or excretions in the body, including urine, faeces, and sweat, which are crucial for maintaining bodily health through elimination.[17]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 3: Sharirasthana
(1) Excrements or waste products produced by the body.[18]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A string of beads used in Hinduism and Buddhism for meditation and chanting.[20]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) It refers to garlands, which are strings of flowers or other materials worn as a decorative accessory, often used for ornamentation and aesthetic purposes.[21]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) A term for a specific type of wreath that should not be used; instead, the person should use 'sraj'.[22]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) This term refers to dirt, such as stool and urine, which a person's life depends upon their ability to retain, and a phthisic patient should carefully retain their stool and semen.[23]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) One of the three fetters that bound souls, it influences vijnanakalah, pralayakalah, and sakalah souls.[24]
The concept of Mala in local and regional sources
Mala, derived from Sanskrit, signifies impurities that obstruct yogic channels, mirroring disorders. It also denotes laziness and is equated with bodily impurities in Arabic, reflecting an unwillingness to work. Additionally, it is a collection of poems by C. R. Das and the protagonist's wife in 'Marriage Poem'.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The protagonist’s wife in 'Marriage Poem', who struggles with feelings of neglect and jealousy regarding her husband's behavior.[25] (2) A collection of poems by C. R. Das that includes a pivotal prayer to God during the poet's immersion in the Himalayas.[26]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Mala is glossed by the Arabic term bawl and represents the impurities that are discussed in relation to the humors and bodily elements.[27] (2) Mala refers to impurities and can block channels in yogic works, which might explain the reference to a disorder in the channels.[28]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) Malas means lazy or idle, as presented in the provided text, representing a state of not wanting to work.[29]
The concept of Mala in scientific sources
Mala, in Ayurveda, universally refers to waste products generated by bodily processes. It encompasses undigested matter, metabolic byproducts, and excretions. Proper elimination of Mala is crucial for health, balance, and the prevention of disease. Its understanding is central to Ayurvedic physiology and treatment.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Accompanying prayers and mantras is the use of it (skt)—a form of rosary— held in the right hand and fingered by pilgrims to keep count of the number of recitations made during their worship.[30]