Meditation is not just a practice—it is a path to inner transformation. In the ancient tradition of Sanatana Dharma, few spiritual tools are as revered and widely used as the Rudraksha mala. Used for Jap Yog (chanting of mantras), Rudraksha malas have been emphasized in scriptures like the Akshamalikopanishad and spoken about in the Bhagavad Gita. In this blog, we’ll explore the powerful role of Rudraksha mala in meditation and how to use it properly for spiritual elevation.
What is a Rudraksha Mala?
A Rudraksha mala is a sacred rosary consisting of Rudraksha beads. Traditionally, malas are made using five mukhi Rudraksha, although other combinations are also used for specific purposes. The standard format for a mala is:
- 108 beads + 1 Meru bead (Total 109)
- Alternative formats: 54+1 or 27+1
The Meru Mani functions like a reset point during Jap (chanting). One should not cross the Meru but instead turn the mala and continue chanting in the reverse direction.
The Spiritual Significance of Rudraksha Mala
Every bead in a Rudraksha mala is believed to hold spiritual vibrations. When energized correctly, it is said to bring mental clarity, protection, and divine blessings. This process is known as Matrika Pratishtha, wherein each bead is charged with a sacred letter of the Sanskrit alphabet.
In the Akshamalikopanishad, detailed instructions are given to energize the mala. Even for a lay user, following the Rudraksha pooja procedures can empower the mala for spiritual benefit.
Why 108 Beads? The Power of Numbers
The number 108 is not arbitrary; it holds deep cosmic significance:
- 108 Upanishads
- 27 Nakshatras x 4 padas = 108
- 108 names of Lord Shiva and Vishnu
- 108 energy lines converging to the heart chakra
- Sanskrit grammar’s sacred letter calculations
Thus, chanting with a mala of 108 beads is seen as harmonizing with cosmic order and rhythm.
What is Jap Yog?
Jap Yog is the practice of repeating mantras using a mala. Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita highlights Jap as the highest form of Yogic discipline.
Types of Jap:
- Manasik Jap: Silent repetition in the mind (highest form)
- Upanshu Jap: Whispered softly, audible only to the self
- Vaikhari Jap: Spoken aloud
Proper Method to Use Rudraksha Mala for Meditation
When using Rudraksha mala for Jap, certain rules and rituals ensure optimal spiritual energy:
Dos and Don’ts:
- ❌ Never use the left hand
- ✅ Use thumb and middle finger for rotating beads
- ❌ Don’t let the index finger touch the mala (symbolizes ego)
- ✅ Keep mala at heart level
- ✅ Do not cross the Meru Mani
- ✅ Keep mala in a gomukhi bag when not in use
- ✅ Sit facing East or North during Jap
- ✅ Sit in Sukhasana or Padmasana
- ✅ Jap must be performed with full devotion and consistency
These practices maintain sanctity and aid Ajna Chakra activation.
Different Malas for Different Deities
Scriptures recommend specific malas for various deities. For example:
Deity | Recommended Mala |
Lord Vishnu | Shankhmala (conch shell) |
Lord Shiva | |
Lord Ganesh | Ivory mala (Gajadant) |
Goddess Bhuvaneshwari | |
Goddess Tripura |
Additionally, malas of donkey’s teeth, lotus seeds, tamarind seeds, and human bone are suggested for Tantra practices (Dash Mahavidyas), though not for general use.
Meditation and Jap Using Rudraksha Mala
Chanting with Rudraksha helps activate various chakras. The Ajna Chakra (between the eyebrows) is particularly influenced during focused meditation. For advanced meditation, practitioners may use:
- 14 mukhi Rudraksha tied on the forehead (Ajna Chakra)
- Combination of beads like Gaurishankar, 9 mukhi, 1 mukhi for deeper spiritual benefits
Mala Construction Guidelines
A well-made mala respects ancient design principles:
- Beads strung mouth-to-mouth and tail-to-tail
Knots tied with mantra chanting (“Om” for each knot) - Mala should be made by a learned person or guru
Meru bead should always face upwards
This alignment ensures energy flows evenly and positively.
Usage Do’s and Rituals
- Always sit at the same place and time for Jap
- Keep the image of your Ishta Devata (personal deity) higher than the mala level
- Face direction depending on goal:
- East – Spiritual growth
- North – Mental peace and health
- West – Wealth
- South – Tantric practices
- Use mala made of cotton, silk, silver, copper or gold threads
Types of Meditation Rudraksha Malas
Purpose | Bead Type/Combination |
General Jap | 5 Mukhi (108+1) |
Spiritual Awakening | 5 Mukhi + 9 Mukhi + Gaurishankar + 1 Mukhi |
Sanyasi Practice | Large Gaurishankar beads in 32+1 Kantha |
Kundalini Awakening | 14 Mukhi on forehead + 2/5 Mukhi for counting |
Benefits of Meditation with Rudraksha Mala
- Activates higher states of consciousness
- Helps in Chakra alignment
- Removes inner disturbances
- Protects from negative energy
- Deepens spiritual connection
- Regulates thoughts, improves focus
- Creates divine aura around the user
Conclusion
The Rudraksha mala is more than just a counting tool—it’s a spiritual companion. Using it with devotion and following scriptural guidelines leads to immense mental clarity, protection, and connection with the Divine. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned meditator, integrating Rudraksha mala into your daily practice can bring profound transformation.
