Śarīra is a generic term referring to Buddhist
relics, although in common usage it usually refers to
pearl or
crystal-like
bead-shaped objects that are purportedly found among the
cremated ashes of Buddhist spiritual masters. Relics of the Buddha after cremation are termed
dhātu in the
Mahaparinibbana Sutta. Śarīra are held to emanate or incite 'blessings' and 'grace' (Sanskrit:
adhiṣṭhāna) within the
mindstream and experience of those connected to them. Sarira are also
believed to ward off evil in the Himalayan Buddhist tradition.