Cultural Appreciation vs. Appropriation: Mala Beads
My name is Tammy and I’m the founder of Malas In Bloom. I’ve been handcrafting small-batch gemstone Mala Beads from my home in California since 2015. I thank my lucky stars every day that I get to wake up in the morning and do what I love.
I’m often asked about the proper use of Mala Beads and whether or not they are a tool that anyone can use. I'd like to address that question and be as transparent as possible about myself, my company, and my belief surrounding Mala Bead jewelry.
Mala Beads first emerged over 3,000 years ago in Hindu and Buddhist practices.
They are made of 108 beads and 1 guru bead, which help you keep count while reciting mantras during prayer and meditation.
It is important to note that Malas are not just fashion statements, but part of a deep spiritual practice meant to balance and harmonize the energy of the person using them.
The beads are made from gemstones and materials that have different energies or meanings tied to them. Because of this, a person is usually very intentional with what beads they choose. By being intentional, they can really hone in during their meditation on different energies.
Mala beads can be incorporated into necklaces or bracelets, depending on what the user deems fit for them. But simply rocking them for fashion without having any intention behind them does dishonor their sacred origin.
Malas In Bloom Mala Beads are made with 108 beads, honoring their origin. Additionally, I hand-knot each mala using semi-precious gemstones and materials that hold special meaning. I purchase the bulk of my supplies from South Asian countries, and I am happy to partner with family owned businesses who have carried on this ancient tradition for thousands of years.
Back to the question at hand: Is wearing or using a Mala taboo, or cultural appropriation, or is it an acceptable meditation tool for all beings everywhere to use and benefit from?
There have been a couple of well-known influencers that have made claims that non-South Asian Mala makers are appropriating the culture, deterring and discouraging heartfelt people from making and using them.
I cannot speak on behalf of others. I can only tell you that as someone practicing her dharma, I truly believe in welcoming and encouraging others to wear and use Mala Beads regardless of ethnicity, religion, spiritual practice (or lack thereof).
The Buddhist community at large is not offended by the use of Mala Beads, either, because the purpose of the Mala is to help people raise their consciousness, contributing to happier individuals and thus a happier planet. Anyone can own, wear, make, or use a Mala. Prayer and meditation is unique to every individual. Mala meditation itself is considered non-theistic—anyone can practice it.
If you are interested in diving into your mind, body and spirit with such tools as Mala Beads, ask yourself: What is your intention, or motivation behind making or wearing Mala Beads?
If it comes from a deep reverence and respect for them, the crystals and their meaning, or a place of wholesome appreciation for an ancient and beautiful practice, how could anyone possibly be offended by that, or call it cultural appropriation?
For those who would still be offended by someone else's use of Mala Beads, I would coach them to focus on their own cultivation of compassion, patience, tolerance, kindness, oneness, and other precious qualities that lead to true joy and enlightenment.
My focus has always been on inclusivity and diversity. Malas In Bloom, from its inception, maintains cultural inspiration and is detached from specific nations, politics, and religions. As the founder of Malas In Bloom, my philosophy is free from barriers—an invitation to elevate our collective consciousness and care for each person in our human family.
If you need help selecting the perfect Mala, or perhaps would like to co-create a Custom Mala, please don’t hesitate to reach out. <3
