108
The number 108 holds significant spiritual and cultural importance in various traditions around the world. Here are some reasons why 108 is considered sacred in spiritual practices:
Mathematical Significance
In mathematics, 108 is an abundant, Harshad, and a semi-perfect number. Its mathematical properties contribute to its significance in various spiritual and philosophical contexts.
Astrological Connection
In astrology, there are said to be 12 constellations and nine arc segments, bringing the total to 108. This aligns with the 12 zodiac signs and the nine planets in Vedic astrology.
Yoga and Hinduism
In Hinduism, there are 108 Upanishads, which are ancient philosophical texts. Additionally, there are 108 names for various deities in Hindu traditions.
Buddhism
In Buddhism, some believe there are 108 feelings: 36 related to the past, 36 to the present, and 36 to the future. The number is also associated with the 108 virtues to cultivate and the 108 defilement’s to avoid.
Japa Meditation
Many Malas used in Japa meditation have 108 beads. Japa is a meditative repetition of a mantra or name of a deity. Each bead is counted as a mantra is repeated, leading to 108 repetitions.
Sanskrit Language
In Sanskrit, there are 54 letters, each with a masculine (Shiva) and feminine (Shakti) aspect, totalling 108. The union of masculine and feminine principles represents completeness.
Heart Chakra
In the yogic tradition, there are said to be 108 energy lines converging to form the heart chakra. The heart chakra is considered a center of love, compassion, and spiritual growth.
Cosmic Connections
Some consider 108 as a representation of the entire universe. The diameter of the sun is approximately 108 times the diameter of the Earth, and the average distance from the Earth to the sun is about 108 times the sun's diameter.
These diverse connections contribute to the sacredness of the number 108 in spiritual practices and philosophies, making it a symbol of completeness, cosmic order, and spiritual significance.