Rudraksha seeds hold a very special place in Hinduism and are attributed with mystical and divine properties. Necklaces made of Rudraksha beads are considered auspicious as well as powerful and are believed to have deep astrological and health benefits. It is believed that one who wears Rudraksha remains untouched by sins, and is protected from all impure deeds or thoughts.
The word 'Rudraksha' is derived from the Sanskrit words, 'Rudra' and 'Aksha'. 'Rudra' is another name for Lord Shiva, and 'Aksha' means teardrop. Mythology states that the Rudraksha plant was born from the tears of Lord Shiva. Ancient scriptures, such as 'Shiva Purana', 'Padma Purana' and 'Shrimad Bhagavad' mention the greatness and wonderful powers of Rudraksha.
Rudraksha beads are classified on the basis of the number of "mukhas" – cracks and grooves on their surface. Each bead has a different effect on you, depending on how many faces it has. These are important from astrological point of view as it is believed that Rudraksha of different Mukhi pleases different planets. Rudrakshas from 1 to 38 mukhi have been talked about in the scriptures, but Rudraksh of 1 to 14 mukhi are commonly found.
