What is Rudraksha?
Rudraksha is a seed that is used as a prayer bead in Hinduism, especially in Shaivism. Vedic scriptures affirm that the yogis, saints, sages of the ancient, medieval and modern India have had Rudraksha beads on their bodies. It is believed that the beads grow on Rudraksha trees that have emanated from the tears of Lord Shiva and have been used by yogis and spiritualists.
Rudraksha beads are differentiated by their mukhas or faces. Naturally occurring grooves, starting from the natural vertical or horizontal stalk point and reaching the opposite point, are termed as "mukhi" or faces. Most Rudrakshas have a small opening at the stalk point resulting from the extraction and cleaning process; this is
sometimes further expanded by drilling, so as to allow the rudraksha to be used for its benefits. The opening might be limited to the surface or it might be like a drill-hole.
Depending on the number of the groves on the bead, beads are classified as mukhi rudraksha. For example if there are 5 groves on the rudraksha bead then it will be named as 5 mukhi rudraksha or 5 faced rudraksha. 1 mukhi Rudraksha beads are available in the shape of cashew or Half Moon.
No single tree is as rich with scriptural references, spiritual myths and legends as the Rudraksha. Its beads have long been sought for their supposed medicinal and magical properties. The word Rudraksha (botanical name: Elaeocarpus Angustifolius) is derived from the words Rudra (Shiva) and aksha (eyes). Ancient spiritual texts like the Shiv Purana and the Devi Bhagwatam are replete with the numerous therapeutic properties and the spiritual significance of these herbal beads.
Origins & Types of Rudraksha
Rudraksha are available from many origins. However Nepal rudraksha beads
are considered the most important. Indonesian or Java rudraksha beads are also available. Java beads are very small and lines are not visible very clearly. People have started using java beads as a substitution for Nepal
rudraksha beads due to low cost.
Like precious gemstones & minerals, Rudraksha come in different qualities. You have to choose them according to the faces and the size. There are many quality factors which can be taken into account while you are buying rudraksha beads. However Size, shape and colour are the most important factors which customers consider while buying. While buying Rudraksha beads you must note that Rudraksha are naturally occurring seeds hence these factors cannot be controlled. You would not get a perfect round rudraksha bead, There will be few millimetre difference on the sides. Size is mostly measured in millimetres. Bigger the bead the more costly it will be. You can purchase beads according to your preference. Buyers generally purchase the most commonly available size which is starts from 15 mm to 20 mm. For example in many offices or corporates visible jewellery is not allowed. So buyers prefer buy smaller sizes which can be wore easily in a concealed manner.
Most of the rudraksha comes in round shape or near-round shape. Apart from these 2 shapes we also have Symmetrical- oval, nut or cashew shapes available. As for colour rudraksha come in light brown, medium brown or dark brown colours.
Benefits & Uses of Rudraksha Beads
Rudraksha beads work on different chakras of the body and when strung according to this therapy, they start cleansing the chakras in a very short duration. Rudraksha Beads range from 1 Mukhi to 21 Mukhi, each bead capable of aligning our mind and the energy around us to specific outcomes.
Rudraksha beads are also used to make malas, used for repetitive prayer (japa), a common aid to worship in Hinduism and other faiths. Rudrakshas are also used for the treatment of various diseases in traditional Indian medicine. Rudraksha malas have been used by Hindus as rosaries from at least the 10th century for meditation purposes and to sanctify the mind, body and soul.
For someone who is constantly on the move and who eats and sleeps in various places, rudraksha is a very good support because it creates a cocoon of your own energy. You might have noticed that when you go to a new place, sometimes you can fall asleep easily, whereas in certain other places you cannot fall asleep even if you are physically tired. This is because, if the situation around you is not conducive to your kind of energy, it will not let you settle down. For sadhus and sanyasis, places and situations could trouble them because they were constantly moving. One of the rules for them was never to put their head down in the same place twice. Today, once again, people have started eating and sleeping in different places because of their business or profession, so a rudraksha can be helpful.
Rudraksha is also a shield against negative energies.
Most garlands/Malas contain 108 beads plus one because as 108 is considered sacred and a suitable number of times to recite a short mantra. The extra bead, which is called the "Meru", bindu, or "guru bead", helps mark the beginning and end of a cycle of 108 and has symbolic value as a 'principle' bead. Rudraksha malas usually contain beads in combinations 27+1, 54+1, or 108+1. Devi-Bhagavata Purana describes the preparation of Rudraksha Mala. The beads are commonly strung on silk, or on a black or red cotton thread.
Rudraksha come from 1 mukhi to 21 mukhi and few special beads as follows:
1 Mukhi Rudraksha bead
One mukhi Rudraksha is the symbol of Godhood, Supreme Truth and Attainment of Eternity. The One mukhi Rudraksha is itself Lord Shankar and it is the main among all rudrakshas of all faces.
2 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
It is also known as 2 mukhi rudraksha, Do Mukhi Rudraksha, Dwiwaakatrantu rudraksha, 2 Faced Rudraksha . 2 Mukhi Rudraksha effectively control the malefic effects of Moon and in the spiritual level such as lack of harmony in relationship etc.
3 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
It is also known as 3 mukhi rudraksha, Teen Mukhi Rudraksha, Trimukham Rudraksha, 3 Faced Rudraksha. Three Face Rudrksha symbolizes to the Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. It is fruitful for meditation, knowledge and concentration.
4 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
It also know as 4 mukhi rudraksha, Char Mukhi Rudraksha, Chaturmuntu rudraksha, 4 Faced Rudraksha. 4 mukhi Rudraksha has four linings from head to bottom at equal distance. Its ruling planet is Jupiter.
5 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
It is also known as 5 Mukhi rudraksha, Panch Mukhi Rudraksha, Five Faced Rudraksha, Five Mukhi rudraksha. 5 mukhi Rudraksha is the form of Rudra named Kaalagni. The wealth, in the form of learning that man gains in the world, should be apparent and permanent only then it is meaningful. Five faced Rudraksha is useful for this purpose.
6 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
6 mukhi Rudraksha is the center of the power of Lord ShivaÍs second son, Kumar Kartikeya. It gives learning, wisdom and knowledge and increases will power.
7 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
This is nepali 7 mukhi rudraksha bead. 7 Mukhi rudraksha is the symbol of anang shiva. It represents goddess mahalaxmi. It is round in shape and color is a shade of brown depending on availability.
8 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
8 mukhi Rudraksha is the second form of reflection of the first son of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesh and is one who is worshipped prior to other gods. Eight linings present on it makes it a very effective Rudraksha. Its wearer becomes unaffected by miseries _ physical, divine or mental.
9 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
9 mukhi Rudraksha is the form of the Goddess Durga (Shakti). It contains the power of Nine Deities. The worshippers of the supreme power Shakti must wear this Rudraksha. All the Rudraksha are the symbol of Lord Shiva but Nine faced Rudraksha contains special Nine qualities.
10 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
The representing deity of 10 mukhi is Lord Narayana (The Preserver). It helps the wearer to overcome difficult times and ensures that the wearer and the family of the wearer is protected. It creates a feeling of security.
11 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
11 Mukhi Rudraksha is regarded as the light mass of Lord Rudra Shiva (Eleven Rudras). For the devotees of Lord Shiva it is the most effective and most successful Rudraksha.
12 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
The 12 Mukhi Rudraksha is the Centre of Brilliancy and Lustre and Radiance and Strength of 12 forms of the God The Sun (SURYA). The wearer of this Rudraksha gets the quality of Surya to move continuously with brilliant radiance and strength.
13 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
13 mukhi Rudraksha is the form of the king Indra. Lord Indra becomes happy, if it is worn. It gives riches. If a man wears, he is upgraded, his honour increases. It fulfills all the earthly desires and gives eight accomplishments (Siddhies), and the god cupid (Kamdeva) pleases with the man who wears it.
14 Mukhi Rudraksha Bead
14 Mukhi Rudraksha enhances willpower, balance of mind, strength and courage. It symbolises excellence, victory and success. 14 mukhi Rudraksha is the most precious divine gem - Deva Mani. It is ruled by the mighty Hanuman. Infuses wearer with a strong will, a brave heart and the courage to overcome all odds.
Ganesh Rudraksha Bead
Ganesh Rudraksha bears a Trunk like elevation as is seen on the face of Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva. Ganesha, the elephant-headed God of success and overcoming obstacles, is also associated with wisdom, learning, prudence, and power. He gives 'Riddhi-Siddhi'.
Gauri Shankar Rudraksha Bead
Gauri Shankar Rudraksha is the symbol of Lord Shiva and Ma Parvati. The wearer of this bead is blessed by both Lord Shiva and Shakti. The term Rudraksha (Rudra i.e. Shiva + aksha i.e. eye) stands for the eyes of Lord Shiva or Rudra implying thereby that it was pleasant to the eyes of Lord Shiva, and hence named in His Honour. The mantra to wear this bead is "OM NAMAH SHIVAYA".
There are many more different special Rudraksha which are and very costly to obtain.
Check out our collection of Rudraksha beads here.Rudraksha Collections