Meaning of the Word Rudraksha
The word “Rudraksha” is derived from “Rudra” meaning Lord Shiva and “Aksha” meaning eyes or tears. According to the Padma Purana, Lord Shiva explains the significance of the Rudraksha tree, stating that anyone who wears Rudraksha on the forehead or near the heart becomes like Shiva himself. Prayers done using Rudraksha are said to give powerful results. Those who die wearing Rudraksha are believed to go to the divine realms after death.
Rudraksha as a Form of Lord Shiva
It is believed that Rudraksha is a smaller form of Lord Shiva. Pure Rudraksha is said to contain the presence of Lord Shiva himself.
According to some scriptures, whoever wears a Rudraksha mala receives special blessings from the gods. It is also mentioned that chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra using a Rudraksha mala during tough times brings great benefits.
How Was Rudraksha Created?
There are different stories in various Puranas. According to the Narada Purana, long ago Lord Shiva performed intense meditation for many years. After completing his penance, tears fell from his eyes onto the earth. From these tears, Rudraksha trees grew.
Lord Shiva once told Goddess Parvati that the fruits of these trees are extremely powerful. Wearing Rudraksha gives happiness and good fortune and removes all kinds of suffering.
Another Story from the Padma Purana
During the early creation period, a terrible demon named Tripura created chaos on Earth. He even fought with gods and killed many of their warriors. After being defeated, the gods prayed to Lord Shiva to save the world.
In anger, Lord Shiva created a powerful arrow to kill the demon. While doing this, some drops of sweat from his body fell to the earth. From these drops, Rudraksha trees emerged.
Different Types of Rudraksha and Their Importance
There are Rudraksha beads from one face (mukhi) to fourteen faces. Each type has a specific mantra and purpose. One must purify the body and chant the proper mantras before wearing Rudraksha.
Specific Mukhi (Face) Benefits
Each Rudraksha bead has a number of “mukhis” or faces, and different mukhis confer distinct benefits:
- 2 Mukhi: Symbolizes the union of Shiva and Shakti, promotes harmony in relationships, emotional stability, and spiritual upliftment toward liberation (moksha).
- 3 Mukhi: Associated with the fire element, it cleanses past karma, reduces fear and self-doubt, boosts motivation and vitality.
- 4 Mukhi: Enhances mental clarity, intelligence, communication skills, concentration, and memory-ideal for students and professionals.
- 5 Mukhi: Connected to Lord Shiva as Kalagni Rudra, it cleanses past sins, enhances wisdom, focus, and spiritual growth. It also has analgesic properties and strengthens the immune system.
- 8 Mukhi: Blessed by Lord Ganesh, it enhances analytical thinking, removes obstacles, and nullifies malefic effects of the planet Rahu
- 9 Mukhi: Embodies Goddess Durga’s energy, clears sins, makes the wearer fearless and stress-free, and offers protection from untimely death
- 11 Mukhi: Enhances oratory and negotiation skills, self-confidence, mental and physical strength, and cultivates fearlessness
- 12 Mukhi: Blessed by the Sun, it brings confidence, leadership qualities, inner strength, and helps overcome fears related to fire and illness
Wearing Rudraksha keeps away evil spirits. It brings blessings not only from Lord Shiva but also from Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, Lord Ganesha, and other deities.
Rules for Wearing Rudraksha
According to the Shiva Purana, Rudraksha should ideally be worn around the neck or on the ears. While wearing, one should chant the Tatpurusha mantra.
In the age of Kali Yuga, wearing Rudraksha is especially important. One should wear at least 350 beads and chant Om Namah Shivaya during the process.
- White Rudraksha is for peace and purity.
- Dark red Rudraksha is very good for active people.
- Black Rudraksha is also powerful and protective.
Benefits of Rudraksha
- Spiritual and Emotional Benefits
Rudraksha beads are revered for their spiritual significance, believed to enhance meditation, bring peace of mind, and foster spiritual growth. They are said to create a protective aura around the wearer, shielding from negative energies and promoting inner calm and emotional stability. - Health Benefits
Wearing Rudraksha malas is believed to reduce stress, calm the nervous system, lower blood pressure, promote relaxation, and support heart health. They can improve sleep quality and boost overall inner strength and willpower. - Meditation and Yoga Aid
Rudraksha beads deepen meditation practices by enhancing concentration and helping maintain focus. They are said to facilitate a deeper connection to the divine and spiritual self.
Common Myths and Facts about Rudraksha
- Myth: Only Ascetics or Saints Can Wear Rudraksha
Fact: Anyone regardless of gender, caste, religion, or marital status can wear Rudraksha. The key is to choose the appropriate bead, such as the Panchmukhi Rudraksha, which is suitable for everyone. - Myth: Rudraksha Must Be Worn on a Specific Day
Fact: While auspicious days are preferred for starting to wear Rudraksha, there is no strict rule. The spiritual sincerity of the wearer is more important than the date5. - Myth: Rudraksha Can Be Styled with Any Metal
Fact: Rudraksha beads should only be strung or set with copper, silver, or gold to maintain their integrity and avoid damage. - Myth: Rudraksha Can Be Shared Among People
Fact: Rudraksha beads adapt energetically to their wearer and should not be shared with others, even family or friends - Myth: Only Priests Can Validate Rudraksha Authenticity
Fact: Authenticity can be verified through certificates provided by reputable sellers; priest validation is not mandatory
Summary
Rudraksha beads are powerful spiritual tools with a wide range of benefits including mental clarity, emotional stability, spiritual growth, health improvements, and protection from negative energies. They are accessible to all people regardless of background, and many common myths about their use and restrictions are unfounded. Proper selection, care, and respect for the beads enhance their benefits.
This combination of spiritual, mental, and physical advantages makes Rudraksha a holistic aid for well-being and enlightenment.
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