GOMUKHI JAP MALA BAG/MEDITATION BAG

Japa Technique

     1. Need for a mala

    2. Meaning of the mala

    3. Use of the mala

    4. Position of the right hand

    5. The flow of breath

    6. Use of a gomukhi

    7. Errors in japa

    8. Pronunciation of mantra

The word gomukhi means 'in the shape of a cow's mouth'. It is a small bag which resembles the shape of a cow's mouth. The mala and your right hand are both placed inside the gomukhi so that they are obscured from view. With your hand in the bag, you then begin to rotate the mala, the bottom of which is supported by the bottom of the bag. A gomukhi is very light, doesn't interfere with the practice of japa and prevents other people interfering or becoming curious about your practice. It can be used when you walk along a street or when you leave your house. It is widely used by those who do anusthana (sustained practice for long, fixed periods of time), perhaps 50,000 to 60,000 beads per day. For them it is almost a must.