Bodhi means enlightenment, wisdom, and the path to spiritual awakening. It represents the wisdom that helps to overcome worldly worries and reach Nirvana. Since the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, Bodhi seeds have come to symbolize this awakening. Bodhi seed malas are considered very auspicious and are favored by both monks and laypeople who practice Buddhism. Using these malas during meditation or chanting is believed to increase merit and support spiritual growth. Due to their popularity, Bodhi seeds are now many different types, about 200-300 in total. Here are ten of the most common types of Bodhi seeds, which may help you choose the right mala.
Star and Moon Bodhi
Star and Moon Bodhi seeds are among the most popular and commonly found. They are often used not just for spiritual purposes but as fashion accessories. The seeds come from the yellow vine plant. Each bead has one large dot surrounded by many smaller dots, which resemble stars around a moon, giving them their name. The longer you wear these beads, the smoother and darker they become, adding to their beauty.
Vajra Bodhi
Vajra Bodhi, also called Vajra seed, is considered highly valuable. Some say it comes from the Bodhi tree, while others believe it comes from the Vajra tree. "Vajra" means strong and unbreakable, symbolizing the power to destroy evil. Wearing Vajra Bodhi malas is believed to offer protection and bring good fortune. These trees grow in tropical and subtropical areas like Indonesia, India, Nepal, and China. The leaves turn from green to yellow-brown or red when dry, and the seeds are encased in a blue shell when ripe.
Phoenix Eye Bodhi
Phoenix Eye Bodhi is unique for the deep groove on each bead, which looks like a half-closed eye, resembling the eye of a phoenix. The beads are usually brownish-yellow, with an elegant and natural look. Originally from India and Nepal, these seeds vary in size and quality, leading to a wide range of prices.
Bodhi Root
Bodhi Root is not the root of a tree but a seed from the Beleaf palm. It’s a type of Bodhi seed that changes color with time and use, and over many years, it may develop cracks, making it a prized material for malas. Bodhi Root is often confused with White Jade Bodhi, but they are different. Bodhi Root is the seed of the Beleaf palm, while White Jade Bodhi comes from another plant.
Dragon Eye Bodhi
Dragon Eye Bodhi seeds are oval and have triangular marks that resemble a dragon's eye, giving them their name. Their price varies, with Indian varieties often being more expensive. In Buddhist Malas, the Dragon Eye, Phoenix Eye, and Qilin Eye are sometimes called the "Three Sacred Eyes." Dragon Eye and Qilin Eye seeds are considered rare and more valuable.
Five-Line Bodhi
Five-Line Bodhi seeds have five faint black lines on their pale surface, along with small dots. With time, the beads turn reddish-brown, and the lines become more visible. The variety from Nepal is especially valued for its darker color. Seeds from the Tiantai Bodhi tree are considered the best, often used by monks for their malas.
Lotus Bodhi
The lotus represents purity, peace, and wisdom. It grows in muddy water but remains unstained, symbolizing spiritual clarity. Lotus Bodhi beads are hard and have beautiful patterns that resemble a lotus flower. Over time, they develop a shiny, reddish appearance, which makes them highly admired for their classic beauty.
Qilin Eye Bodhi
Qilin Eye Bodhi has a unique shape, with a square “eye” on each bead. The beads are round and flat, resembling small persimmons. There are two types: "true-eye," where the eye is perfectly centered, and "off-eye," where the eye is slightly off-center.
Mani Bodhi
Mani Bodhi seeds are common and come from India and Nepal. They are oval and brown, with a hard surface covered in natural grooves. When polished, the seeds look similar to Star and Moon Bodhi, with a white core and black dots, leading some to call them “Ice Flower Star and Moon.”
Thousand-Eye Bodhi
Thousand-Eye Bodhi gets its name from the many tiny natural spots on each bead that resemble countless eyes. With long use, the beads darken and develop a shiny surface, changing color from light to shades of brown or red. This gradual change adds to their charm and makes them popular among collectors.
In conclusion, Bodhi seed Malas are not only symbols of good fortune but also tools for spiritual blessing. By wearing them, people seek luck, peace, and blessings, hoping to gain spiritual growth and enlightenment. May everyone find the right Bodhi seeds for themselves and enjoy a happier, more fulfilling life.
