The world of spiritual and meditation accessories is filled with weird and wonderful items. These items can be sourced from a wide range of materials, some even from the most uncommon ones. One such accessory is Yak bone lockets and Yak bone mala. And as you may expect from the name of the accessory, it is made from the bones of yak. But don’t get us wrong, no yaks are sacrificed during the makings of these materials. Rather, they are made from the bones of Yaks that have perished due to old age, as the bones from the old yaks are easy to craft but still durable enough to be crafted into Yak Bone Mala. But material aside, Yak bone lockets also have deep spiritual symbolisms along with a mysterious history. So, what are the history and symbolisms of Yak bone lockets in Tibetan culture?
In this blog, we shall cover the historical background of yak bone mala along with its symbols in Tibetan culture. In addition, we shall also provide you with a brief introduction regarding the uses of Yak bone lockets. So, keeping this in mind, let’s get started.
Historical Background Of Yak Bone Mala
The history of bone lockets and pendants goes back to the prehistoric era. But the history of Yak bone mala doesn’t end with the prehistoric era. Rather, history can be broken down into various eras. Following is the breakdown regarding the history of the Yak bone locket.
1. Prehistoric Era
Back in the day, bone lockets and pendants were used as symbols for their clans and shamanic rituals. This aspect was true across thousands of tribes across the world, including Tibet. In Tibet, the Yak was domesticated rather than cows or buffalos as they were the only bovines that could survive in the cold climate of the Himalayas. They provided the tribes with meat, milk, and fur. But once they passed away or were killed for meat, the bones were then transformed into lockets to symbolize the cycle of life and death. The bone pendants also served as a way to respect all that the Yak gave to the people as once Yak could feed an entire family for a long time and thus, they were greatly respected.
2. Emergence Of Tibetan Buddhism and Medieval Period2.
As per the recorded history, Tibetan Buddhism emerged around the 7th to 9th BC, influenced by Nepalese Buddhism and local Bon Tradition. The relics of past Yak bone lockets were preserved and then integrated as prayer beads. These beads slowly began to symbolize the impermanence of life and death. Further, they were also used as a supporting tool for meditation practices. Then as the passed on and the Medieval period came around, the bones, because of their association with death, began to be associated with practices involving wrathful deities such as Mahakala and Vajrakala. That said, although the association was indeed with wrathful deities, the intention was rather peaceful as the intent of having or using the bone locket was to conquer ego and attachment.
3. Modern Era
As time passed and the world became a global village, the information about Yak bone too spread and became wider known. Because of their unique significance and association with peace, their influence and popularity have spread from the humble Tibetan region to across the globe.
This is the overall gist of the history associated with the Yak bone mala and lockets. As you can see, what began as a form of memorializing an animal who provided the family with sustenance has now become a symbol representing the impermanence of life and control over ego.
Symbolism of Yak Bone in Tibetan Culture
It was nearly impossible to talk about the history of Yak bone mala without talking about some of its significance. But from what little we have discussed so far, you should already have noted that this spiritual accessory, literally made from the bones of an animal, actually represents peace and tranquillity. But do note that not all bone accessories are viewed this way. In general, bone accessories are viewed as evil, barbaric, and something that is associated with cruelty or simply bad aspects of death. There are only a few exceptions to this, and Yak Bone Mala falls under those few exceptions. But that begs the question, what exactly are the symbolisms associated with Yak bone pendants that make them less associated with evil and more with peace? Well, some of the significance of Yak bone in Tibetan culture includes:
1. Strength And Resilience
One of the key significance of the yak bone pendant is its representation of strength and resilience. This symbolism has more to do with the nature of yak and less to do with religion. Yaks, by their nature, are sturdy bovines who are resilient to cold and the harsh climate of the Himalayas, traits which are highly respected in the Himalayas to this day. Furthermore, they are very strong, and if it wasn’t for their peaceful nature, they could easily wreck an entire village with just a few of them. This is another trait that is deeply revered and respected to this day. The fact that they have such strength but still are not barbaric is highly valued. Their physical strength and resilience are then taken as a metaphor for mental, emotional, and spiritual strength, which is required to face the challenges in modern times, although back in the past, this was likely taken at face value.
2. Impermanence And Interconnectedness
One of the key principles of Buddhism is that nothing lasts forever, and everything is impermanent (anicca). Nothing represents impermanence better than a material made from the literal bones of a being that once was a strong and resilient being of the Himalayas. They serve as a tangible representation of the concept that the weak too shall be strong, but at the same time, the strong too can fall from grace and become nothing but bones. Furthermore, the yak bone mala also serves as a physical reminder that nothing in life is permanent, including your sorrows and even life itself. But this is not where the concept of impermanence ends as in Buddhism, there is a heavy emphasis on the cyclic cycle of life and death and even death is not permanent- and the bone mala is a perfect material to symbolize this change.
3. Transformation Of Mundane Into Sacred
The concept of impermanence is deeply tied to transformation, as one cannot exist without another. But when it comes to Yak bone mala, the symbolism of transformation is not ordinary. Rather, it is associated with the transformation of the mundane into the sacred. The symbolism is partially associated with the way how Yak transforms into the locket. Yak, before being transformed into a bone mala, is a being of the mundane world. Sure, they are loved and respected but they are beings of the mundane world nonetheless. However, once they enter the cycle of death, their remains, in this case, bones, are imbued with heavy symbolisms that transform them into sacred, not to mention the deep association with death and impermanence that the bones carry innately. All of this imbues the locket made from Yak bone with the added symbolism regarding the transformation of the mundane into the sacred. This transformation also symbolizes the Buddhist teaching that all living beings have the potential for enlightenment and can transform into sacred.
These are the three key symbolisms associated with Yak bone lockets. The core aspects behind the Yak bone lockets are strength and resilience derived from the living Yak and the transformation brought upon and after the death of the animal.
Uses of Yak Bone Lockets
The key symbolism of Yak bone lockets is indeed a few, but they have many uses. These spiritual artifacts have been constantly used by spiritual practitioners since prehistoric times to modern times. But you may be curious regarding its uses. The good news for you, if you are thinking about using the Yak bone locket as a spiritual tool, is that you can use it in multiple ways. Some of the key uses of this spiritual accessory include:
- Yak bone lockets are believed to protect the wearer from negative energy and offer spiritual guidance.
- They assist with focus and concentration during meditation, with their symbolic designs enhancing mindfulness.
- The locket serves as a reminder of life’s impermanence and the potential for spiritual transformation.
- Wearing a yak bone locket connects the wearer to Tibetan and Himalayan cultural traditions and ancestral wisdom.
- These lockets are thought to bring good fortune, prosperity, and positive energy to the wearer.
- Customizable yak bone lockets can be engraved with personal symbols or prayers, adding unique meaning.
- When incorporated into mala beads, the locket enhances the spiritual energy and symbolism of the practice.
- Giving a yak bone locket is seen as offering blessings and good wishes for the recipient’s well-being.
Naturally, these are some of the most common uses, depending on how you want to perceive the Yak bone pendant and your connection with Tibetan spirituality. You can unlock more of its uses the more you dive deeper into Tibetan Buddhism.
Modern and Ethical Considerations of Yak Bone Lockets
Now, considering all of the spiritual perks and uses of the Yak bone necklace and Yak bone pendant, it is bound to be sold and attract a wide range of attractions. However, not all of this attention is good, and the use of animal products for making jewellery has raised deep concern among animal rights activities and sometimes rightfully so.
According to animal rights activists, the use of Yak bones is unethical as it is harming the animal for the use of humans. While this argument is valid, they fail to acknowledge that Yaks are highly revered and respected in Tibetan culture. Only the bones of naturally deceased yaks are used for Yak bone pendants and necklaces. Any other source of Yak bones is rejected spiritually and, therefore, is not considered fit to be used for religious and spiritual purposes. This is because should a yak be killed, the bones from the said Yak lose their significance about the impermanence of life and the aspect of peace.
But at the same time, their concern is valid as well because there are many providers of Yak bone mala which breed and slaughter tons of yaks purely for monetary gain. Needless to say, they should absolutely be stopped.
The point here is that while the modern ethical concerns are valid, you should not blindly stop an eons-long tradition and practice but rather look at the source of where the Yak bone is sourced from. If the Yak bone is taken from a source associated with Tibetan or Buddhist culture, being men of culture, they are less likely to resort to violence for monetary gains. But if the source is unknown, shady, or is purely using revered Yaks for monetary gains, then it is better to let the animal rights activists know and stop the slaughter. Yaks are majestic beings meant to be revered, and their bones are used only after they pass peacefully; they are not simple creatures whom anyone can wantonly kill for products.
Buy the Best Yak Bone Lockets from Nirvana Mala
Now, after looking at all of the symbolism and history, you may want to know where you want to buy the best yak bone mala from. Well, one of the best sources from where you can buy ethically sourced Yak bone pendants is Nirvana Mala- the best wholesaler and distributor of Yak Bone Mala in Nepal. But why Nirvana Mala? Some of the key reasons include:
- Nirvana Mala’s Ethically Sourced Materials: Nirvana Mala ensures that all their yak bone products are sourced as per the Buddhist precept of non-harm to and respect for all beings. Artisans often take the bones from yaks who have died naturally, ensuring no animal is harmed simply because it can provide its bones.
- Handicraft: Every item is handmade by skilled artisans in Nepal. Each piece reflects an assortment of traditional techniques along with cultural heritage. Add to that, the pledge of craftsmanship; every single product is unique and qualitatively superior.
- Cultural Significance: Yak bone lockets are a very spiritual gift item in Tibetan Buddhism, standing for impermanence, yet used as instruments of meditation and prayer. With Nirvana Mala, you get to connect to that rich cultural and spiritual tradition when you make your purchase.
- Fairly Traded, Sourced from Local Artisans Nirvana Mala supports fair trade practices, enabling artisans to maintain a decent wage and work under humane working conditions.
- Unique Designs Personalized: In Nirvana Mala, you shall get a great variety of unique design pieces that really help express your personal style and vibe of your spiritual journey.
By choosing Nirvana Mala, you invest in ethically crafted, culturally rich, and spiritually meaningful products that support artisans and their communities.
Conclusion
Bone accessories are typically seen as being associated with evil and the negative aspects of death. But when it comes to Yak bone mala, they are seen in a rather positive way. This primarily has to do with the reverence the Tibetan culture has towards Yaks and their spiritual belief about death. The history of the Yak bone pendants has further made them be viewed with a positive light. There is also symbolism associated with these Yak bone necklaces that adds to them being viewed favorably. However, more recently, there have been various concerns about the ethical consequences of using bones to accessorize. While this concern is valid, it would not be sensible to reject a spiritual accessory from a culture of peace as long as the materials are ethically sourced. Those voicing the concern should turn their focus towards the source of the bones and take action towards those who slaughter unnecessarily rather than aiming their guns at the culture as a whole.
In this blog, we provide you with a brief introduction towards the history and symbolisms of Yak bone mala. Along with this, we also expressed some points regarding the modern and ethical concerns regarding the use of bones as materials. We hope you found this helpful. If you seek further insights into the various aspects of spiritual and religious accessories, do check out some of our other blogs. And if you want the best Yak bone mala from an ethical source, look no further than Nirvana Mala. Thank you for reading till the end.
FAQs on Yak Bone Lockets
1. What does the yak bone bracelet mean?
The yak bone bracelet is a symbol of impermanence and a sign of the temporary or sojourning aspects of life, which is considered a core Buddhist philosophy. It is believed to keep the wearer grounded and aware of where one is in their spiritual journey, while at the same time warding off the negative energy.
2. What is the significance of the yak bone?
The yak bone is deeply symbolic in Tibetan Buddhism, representing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. It is often used in malas, jewelry, and ritual items to remind practitioners of the impermanence of existence and to encourage detachment from material desires.
3. What does a Tibetan yak bone necklace mean?
The necklace made of Tibetan yak bones is a very sacred accessory, usually worn for spiritual protection and to help with meditation. This is a symbol of strength, resilience, and the connection between the physical world and the spiritual realm, especially when applied to prayer and mantra recitation.
4. How to identify a genuine yak bone locket?
A genuine yak bone pendant usually possesses a different, natural texture and colour, which may vary from light ivory to beige with possible dark markings. You can also spot the authenticity by the handcrafting details and ethical sourcing by the seller to ensure that no harm came to the animal in making this piece.