RUDRAKSHA Significance

Usually the beads of rudraksha are strung together as a mālā. Traditionally, it is believed that the number of beads used should be 108 plus one. The extra bead is the bindu. If the mālā lacks a bindu, the energy is said to become cyclical and wearers who are sensitive may become dizzy. When the beads are stringed, it is advised that they be strung with either a silk thread or a cotton thread. If the rudraksha is threaded, it is advised to change the thread every six months to prevent the thread from snapping and the 109 beads from scattering. The rudraksha mālā may also be strung with either copper, silver or gold, typically by a jeweler. A common issue with mālās wired with such metals is the mālā being tied too tightly. This may result in the insides of the rudraksha seeds cracking and crumbling from excessive pressure. Thus, is necessary to ensure that the mālā is tied loosely. The mālā can be worn all the time, including when showering. When bathing in cold water baths without chemical soaps, it is beneficial for the water to flow over it and upon the body. Wearing the mālā while in contact with chemical soaps and warm water is best avoided, however, as it can result in the rudraksha becoming brittle and eventually cracking.