Why 108?

So what is the significance of 108? Well there are many, many, many recorded significances of 108, some are beautifully symbolic and spiritual, some mathematical, some are just random and weird. However there is no doubt that 108 is a sacred number in Hindu, Buddhism and Yoga history and traditions.

Some things that resonate with me are ~

  • 108 represents the ultimate reality of the universe.The individual numbers 1, 0, and 8 represent one thing, nothing, and everything (infinity).
  • The distance of the Sun from the Earth divided by the diameter of the Sun and the distance of the Moon from the Earth divided by the diameter of the Moon is approximately equal to 108. It is claimed that the great sires of Vedanta knew this relationship and thus 108 is a very important number in Vedantic chantings.
  • There are 108 beads on a mala, mala are used for chanting mantra (Japa Mala) and are a sacred tool traditionally handed down from guru to śiṣya (student).

When it comes to participating in 108 Sun Salutations I have not been able to find much history in the practice that dates back past about 1950’s, but if you can please let me know! In recent times we have come together to flow through 108 Sūrya Namaskāra as a way to celebrate new beginnings, to greet a new season and to support charity (Check out YogaAid, which I participated in at The Yoga Barn, Bali!).

To me participating in this practice takes on many meanings. It is something which I feel every yogi should experience at least once in their lifetime, it is a huge challenge but once you have completed it the feeling of rest you experience in Savasana is deep, peaceful and unparallelled. It is a means of bringing people together, as you move through each vinyasa there will be times you will struggle, both mentally and physically, but when you look around you realise you are not alone as no one does this easliy. Most of all it is like life, it takes courage, commitment and endurance, it is hard and there will be times when you wonder if it is all worth it. But when it’s all over you look back you realise, of course it was worth it, it was AMAZING!

For more meanings on the auspicious number of 108 check out this link.

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One Comment

  1. Tricia
    18 hours ago

    Thanks, that’s interesting.. Am looking forward to doing the 108 salutations its definitely going to be a challenge and it is the things u don’t do u regret so am excited to give it a go. I know now the relaxation at the end will be like no other I have to date experienced!!!!!! Hope the weather stays cooler!!!!!

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