Explore the sacred & important significance of the number 108 in Hinduism
The Significance of 108 in Hinduism
In Hinduism the number 108 holds great significance & is considered sacred. This is believed that there are 108 Upanishads which are ancient texts that contain spiritual teachings. Also there are said to be 108 sacred sites throughout India known as pilgrimage sites. The number 108 is also associated with the 108 beads on a mala which is a string of prayer beads used for meditation & chanting.
The Symbolism of 108
The number 108 is said to represent the universe & the interconnectedness of all things. In Hinduism this is believed that there are 108 nadis or energy channels that converge at the heart chakra. Chanting a mantra 108 times is thought to help align these energy channels & bring balance to the body & mind. The number 108 is also associated with the 108 names of various deities in Hindu mythology.
The Rituals & Practices Involving 108
In Hinduism there are many rituals & practices that involve the number 108. For example during certain ceremonies offerings may be made in multiples of 108. Some devotees also perform pradakshina which is the act of walking around a sacred object or temple 108 times as a form of devotion. Also reciting a mantra 108 times is believed to bring spiritual benefits & help purify the mind.
The Spiritual Significance of 108
The number 108 is considered to be a sacred & auspicious number in Hinduism. This is believed to represent the ultimate reality & the divine. Chanting a mantra 108 times is thought to help connect with the divine & bring about spiritual transformation. The repetition of the number 108 is said to help focus the mind & deepen one spiritual practice.
The Connection to Astronomy & Mathematics
On top of that to its spiritual significance the number 108 also has connections to astronomy & mathematics. For example the distance between the Earth & the Sun is approximately 108 times the diameter of the Sun. In mathematics 108 is a Harshad number which is a number that is divisible by the sum of its digits. These connections further stress the importance of the number 108 in Hinduism.
