Without emphasizing the significance of rudraksha beads in the inner metamorphosis of a human being, spiritual literature, and legendary knowledge are incomplete. Rudraksha is made up of two terms, Rudra and Aksha, which approximately translate to Shiva's tears.
But where do rudraksha beads grow?
A rudraksha bead is the fruit of Elaeocarpus ganitrus, a Southeast Asian broad-leaved evergreen tree. Because of their inedible surface, they first resemble blueberry beads, but after drying, they adopt the shape of a prayer bead.
The rudraksha is not a modern craze but is mentioned in sacred Hindu writings such as Bhaqat Puran, Padma Puranam, and Shiva Purana. Its usage in Japa, or repetitive prayer or mantra chanting, is recommended by ancient sages. According to certain religions, Rudra is the one who takes away the believer's pain and changes mournful tears into gladness.
So the significance of rudraksha is found in this shift from anguish to happiness. According to traditional beliefs, praying with beads accelerates the process of achieving the four aims of human life: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.
Types of Rudraksha Beads which are so powerful
Rudraksha is available in 16 different types, each with a different number of vertical lines (mukhi) on its surface. The mukhi determines which planet and God the specific rudraksha symbolizes.
Type |
Ruling Planet |
Ruling God |
Significance |
1 Mukhi |
Sun |
Shiva |
It is only available to a handful in Lord Shiva's favor, and it aids in emancipation by washing away the wearer's previous transgressions. |
2 Mukhi |
Moon |
Ardhanareshwar (Mahadev and Mata Shakti) |
It emphasizes harmonious relationships and a cheerful view of life. |
3 Mukhi |
Sun |
Agni Dev |
It removes any obstacles from one's previous karma that impede prosperity in this life. |
4 Mukh |
Jupiter |
Brahaspati Dev |
It boosts your confidence and inspires you to create original stuff. |
5 Mukhi |
Jupiter |
Kalagni |
It focuses on increasing consciousness and listening to one's inner knowledge. |
6 Mukhi |
Mars |
Lord Kartikeya |
It helps to center and regulate your life while also counteracting Mars' problematic impact. |
7 Mukhi |
Venus |
Goddess Lakshmi |
It is a sign of money and fortune, as well as tranquility. |
8 Mukhi |
Ketu |
Lord Ganesha |
It offers you the strength to overcome the difficulties brought about by Ketu. |
9 Mukhi |
Rahu |
Goddess Durga |
It enables you to overcome your deepest anxieties and stand up to your adversaries. |
10 Mukhi |
All |
Krishna Ji |
It shields you from negative energy or dark magic. |
11 Mukhi |
All |
11 Rudra Avatar |
It is an excellent supplement to your spiritual practice for gaining greater insight. |
12 Mukhi |
Sun |
Aditya (Surya Dev) |
It improves leadership abilities, vigor, and fearlessness. |
13 Mukhi |
Venus |
Kamadeva |
It assists you in fulfilling your ambitions by increasing your success rate and decreasing your failures. |
14 Mukhi |
Mars |
Hanuman Ji |
Using these beads, you may imbue the major trait of Hanuman, his fearlessness. |
15 Mukhi |
Mercury |
Pashupatinath |
It assists you in identifying real happiness and rising beyond the world's materialistic addiction. |
16 Mukhi |
Moon |
Mahamretunjaya |
This potent bead guards against deadly bodily ailments. |
Who can wear rudraksha beads?
Rudraksha beads can be worn by everyone, regardless of varna, ashram, gender, or culture, according to Chapter 25 of the Shiva Mahapurana. Some people often discourage females from wearing rudraksha malas because of beliefs about troubled marriage relationships or the belief that women are not strong enough to handle their power.
Women, on the other hand, have historically worn the beads and thrived. It may be seen in the depictions of Goddess Parvati and Maa Durga on the rudraksha malas.
When you read the several sorts of rudraksha beads, you will see that four of them depict divine Goddesses: Maa Durga, Bhumi Devi, Maa Lakshmi, and Kalyani Devi.
As a result, ladies can wear rudraksha mala without concern and get all of its advantages.
The Significance of Rudraksha Malas: A Complete Guide
What are the benefits of wearing rudraksha beads?
While each form of rudraksha has a distinct advantage, there are certain common advantages that all rudraksha beads provide. Some of them are as follows:
- They absorb excellent vibrations and enhance the energy of the mantra you chant with each bead.
- They are an excellent supplement to your meditation routine.
- They guard against negativity, bad energy, and intentional psychic attacks.
- They calm your racing thoughts and direct your attention to the current moment.
- They raise your confidence and give you the strength to confront life's challenges.
- They safeguard both mental and physical health against sickness.
- Mantra chanting with rudraksha beads helps to maintain your rhythmic heartbeat, making you less susceptible to heart illness.