One of the most learned and highly trained American-born lamas in the Tibetan Dzogchen tradition. He is a meditation teacher and author.
Liz A.: Thank you for being “out there” and available for those of us with no guide! This past week, I bought a Rudraksha Mala to help with my daily practice. After purchasing it, I discovered it’s defective. It has only 103 beads instead of 108. Is it bad luck or disrespectful to use it anyway OR should I return it (which would be awkward)? To be honest, I’ve always been quite different from any of my “peer” group so don’t really mind that it’s odd too, but I don’t wish to make any mistakes with my learning. Thank you for your time & attention to my concern!
Lama Surya Das: I feel that you should use the Mala and not think it’s defective. What you put into it will more than make up for a few missing beads. No need to be superstitious or get lost in extraneous details.
If you want to be technical about it, Rudraksha beads are sacred for creation Mantra purposes- such as Shiva Mantras, wrathful mantras and practices— and are not generally used for mantra recitation and the counting of prayers.
Enjoy your new blessed Rosary, and bless it even more by putting your heartfelt intentions into action- prayerful action.
Submitted by Liz A. via email on August 15th, 2010.
