Pages Menu
Categories Menu

Know Your Rudraksha Seed

What is a ‘rudraksha’?


Rudraksha is the seed of a particular tree species, ‘Eliocarpus ganitrus’, which usually grows at a certain altitude in the mountains – mainly in the Himalayan region. The best quality rudrakshas come from the Himalayas because of the optimal growing atmosphere.
The seeds can have a number of line or facets (Sanskrit Term: 'Mukhi'), ranging from 1 to 21, each with its own energy signature & significance, making them applicable to different people & different life aspects.

What are they used for?

These seeds have a very unique vibrational energy and have been used in energy medicine as spiritual tools (in the east) since time immemorial. Like its manifested form, the energy around the seed is similar to that of a protective cocoon, which is optimal for protection, nurturing and developing that, which lies latent. Generally used as beads in a 'japa-mala' (Sanskrit term for prayer mala) however, it can be used or worn in other ways as well (as pendants, bracelets, in crystal grids, in altar, etc.).

Types of Rudraksha:

One Mukhi / Line

Physical Attributes: Generally shaped like a cashew nut or curved moon with one line running on the inside of the curve.

Chakra: Sahasrahara (Crown)

Element: Ether (Thought / Space)

Ruling Planet: The Sun

Energy: Being 1 faceted, it resonates with the one Universe, the first manifestation. It stands for everything in manifestation in the Universe and also ties it back to the un-manifested Universe,  the unmatched, unlimited spiritual potential. It assists the wearer to experience all that the manifested Universe has to offer while keeping a steady understanding of the one source, which assists one not to get too carried away by the intensity of the experience. Its planetary ruler, the sun, represents the self sustaining, self transforming energy. Ultimately assisting the seeker to transform old patterns, habits, thoughts, traumas and experience which has served its purpose into newer and higher thoughts and patterns, more suited for a higher lever of consciousness.

Two Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Generally oval shaped with two lines on the opposite ends of the exterior of the seeds.

Chakra: Anahata (Heart)

Element: Air

Ruling Planet: The Moon

Energy: The number two signifies the fused inner duality, spirit and matter, Shiva and Shakti, the yin and yang. It represents the two opposite sides who need each other to define each other's existence and have to come into divine union which is so eloquently defined in mythology in the forms of 'Avalokiteshwara' (Buddhist), 'Ardanareeshwara' (Vedic), 'Hermaphrodite' (Greek) and many other mythological forms. This seed brings in the energy of cohesion and unity to the user, assisting one to combine the mortal and immortal selves and thereby assisting one to recognize the fact that we are all spiritual beings having a human experience. On a more practical note, this seeds aids one to magnetically attract meaningful relationships.

Three Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with three lines generally 120 degrees apart.

Chakra: Manipura (Solar Plexus)

Element: Fire

Ruling Planet: Mars

Energy: With its ruler Mars the fiery planet, this seeds represents the 'fire' element. Fire being the highest element has both creative and transmutative properties and as the saying goes 'fire can both create and destroy life', this seed attracts that which is needed in life. Sometimes old and outworn forms have become obsolete and need transmutation such that the locked energy can be freed once again for it to shape into newer forms with a closer resonance with where in life we are heading towards. On a practical note, this seeds stimulates the inner fire, hence assisting one to overcome doubts, self-hatred, over-criticalness, laziness, fear, anxiety and anything that is holding us back from moving forward in life. A fiery tool which will bring one out of self created prisons, depression and guilt.

Four Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with four lines generally 90 degrees apart.

Chakra: Swadhisthana (Sacral)

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: Mercury

Energy: With its ruler Mercury, the planet of 'illumination' and 'wisdom', this seed also is attributed to lord 'Bramha' (Vedic) and the 3rd ray aspect of 'Creative Intelligence' (Seven Rays). At its best when best matched (wearer's intention and stage in evolution), it can open all doors of understanding which enables one to comprehend the cosmic blueprint. On a more practical note, it aids in all aspects related to learning and understanding, be it memory retention, understanding new concepts, efficiency of assimilating new knowledge, concentration or mental endurance. A great tool to enhance original thought, new mental constructs and ideas making it a fantastic companion to folks in academia, scientific or philosophical research, executives and visionaries.

Five Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with five lines generally 72 degrees apart.

Chakra: All Chakras

Element: N/A

Ruling Planet: Jupiter

Energy: The most abundantly found rudraksha on the planet, about 90% of all rudraksha trees are of the 5 faceted variety. To take a cue from the crystal kingdom wherein quartz is the most abundant crystal on the planet, its availability in plenty makes one wonder that the reason for its bounty is to ensure that every household should have a piece of quartz, the same goes for this 5 faceted rudraksha. Its ruling planet Jupiter, being the largest in our solar system has a similar effect in astrology (that of expanding the energy that falls through it). A general amplifier of energies, this seed is deemed as an all-rounder which effects all aspects of life equally thereby making it very versatile. Great for general good health, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.

Six Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with six lines generally 60 degrees apart.

Chakra: Muladhara (Base)

Element: Earth

Ruling Planet: Venus

Energy: The planet Venus is a direct give away on the energy associated with this seed, great stone of love, charm and relationships. The not much talked about fact on Venus is the fact that it is the hottest planet in the solar system, this endows this rudraksha with immense power which is said to directly enhance the wearer's will power, delivery and expression power. Now this aspect makes it a great tool for people who have voice their opinion, express their thoughts, lead a team or enact a drama. It will make the wearer an effective communicator. It is also known to possess sensual energy which balances and aligns the physical organs, especially those associated with reproduction.

Seven Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with seven lines generally 52 degrees apart.

Chakra: Manipura (Solar Plexus)

Element: Fire

Ruling Planet: Saturn

Energy: With 7 facets, this seed echoes the Universal pattern of seven and the completion of a cycle. The mystical number 7 is also related to the Seven Rays and the constellation of Ursa Major (Great Bear) which associates this seed with the cosmic pattern of 7 (7 days in a week, 7 chakras, 7 notes in music etc.). This seed is known to complete the cycle and bring to fruition everything that has been laboured for in the current cycle. Its planetary ruler, Saturn represents this with its rings which represents the 'ring pass not', the limit of our consciousness, the karmic boundary that we have created for our self based on our actions in this cycle. On a practical note, it is known to bring good luck, success, high yield and completion.

Eight Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with eight lines generally 45 degrees apart.

Chakra: Muladhara (Base)

Element: Earth

Ruling Planet: Rahu or North (Ascending) Lunar Node

Energy: With its mysterious planetary ruler 'Rahu' who in Vedic mythology is known to swallow the sun causing eclipses; Depicted as the top half of the demonic being who rides on top of a chariot with eight horses pulling it in rapid velocity. This seed brings a sense of protection by enveloping the wearer in a protective energy which in turns makes the wearer energetically invisible, much like the chameleon who merges with the surroundings in moments of danger, this seed is known to bring about a similar protective mechanism to its wearer. In practical life, it is a great tool to possess when one has to engage a potentially tense or even hostile situation in life. It offers stealth, silence and quickness making it a very useful tool to have it in one's repository.

Nine Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with nine lines generally 40 degrees apart.

Chakra: Sahasrahara (Crown)

Element: Ether (Thought / Space)

Ruling Planet: Ketu or South (Descending) Lunar Node

Energy: The number 9 being the king of all numbers represents the highest one can achieve in the manifested Universe, the closest a manifested being can get to with respect to the unlimited potential / purity of the un-manifested Universe. Being on top of the number hierarchy, this 9 faceted seed aids one to look at the big picture and alleviates fear of death. The number 9 is also linked in Vedic mythology to the 9 forms of the goddess and as such this seed resonates with the collective energies of all the 9 forms. It imbues the wearer with tremendous dynamism and fearlessness thus making it a stone for leaders in all spheres of life. This seed attracts all good things in life to emulate the mountain top experience of an initiation.

Ten Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with ten lines generally 36 degrees apart.

Chakra: Swadhisthana (Sacral)

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: All nine planets

Energy: The first number in double digits, this number stands for a level of consciousness a level beyond all its predecessors. A composite number made of 1 and 0, standing for the one manifested Universe out of the unmanifested void, this number stands of everything and nothing at the same time. With all the 9 planets being its planetary rulers, this seed represents a unique energy signature, which is the synthesized frequency of all the 9 rulers combined. It is known to nullify black magic and psychic vampirism thus making it an efficient curative tool for those who have had the misfortune of being victims of such attacks. This seed aids one to lift one's consciousness to a whole new level hence it is also great for those who seek to rise above a troublesome situation in hopes of finding out of the box thinking and solutions.

Eleven Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with eleven lines generally 32.7 degrees apart.

Chakra: Vishuddha (Throat)

Element: Ether

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: The first prime number in double digits, this number resonates the combined frequencies of two lower prime numbers, 2 and 9. It is correct to assume that this seed represents the aspect of 'unity' which the number 2 stands for, as well as representing the highest levels of consciousness possible by anything within the realm of manifestation which is represented by the number 9. Together 2 and 9 synthesized yields 11, giving this seed the ability to bring about unity with anything and everything in manifestation. On a practical note, this seed is a great tool for meditation and practice of achieving at-one-ment with the higher divine.

Twelve Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with twelve lines generally 30 degrees apart.

Chakra: Anahata (Heart)

Element: Air

Ruling Planet: Sun

Energy: The number 12 in pure mathematics is the only true square which represents harmony both vertically and horizontally (as represented by the Fibonacci series by adding the digits up). This harmony is also represented in human understanding in various forms, the 12 zodiacs, 12 months in a year, 12 hours in a day and night, 12 apostles of Jesus and so on. In Vedic mythology, the number 12 is represented by the 12 'Adityas', the aspects of the sun. As such this seed has a sense of radiance which is associated with the sun, making it a great tool to be used to make oneself shine, stand out and attract attention. Ideal for folks in the performing arts to aid them and their performance stand out. Great for people when they are in the running or competition for a position or title.

Thirteen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Sphere shaped with thirteen lines generally 27.7 degrees apart.

Chakra: Swadhisthana (Navel)

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: Venus

Energy: The mystical number 13 is one of most respected numbers in ancient cultures strikingly different to its modern day interpretation and bad publicity. The number 13 represents the point of synthesis of the universally harmonic number 12. As represented in the English folklore, the 12 knights of the round table as well as King Arthur himself, marking the 13th point, a point of synthesis of the 12. In the Vedic culture, lord Indra marks the same point. It is this synthesizing feature of this number that this seed resonates with, embodying the seed with alchemical properties. This rudraksha seed is great for people who have a synthesizing role to play, taking in the best from all points and creating a single united work of understanding. Practically this seed fares well for people in trade, research, medicine and leadership positions.

Fourteen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with fourteen lines generally 25.7 degrees apart.

Chakra: Ajna (3rd Eye)

Element: Ether (Light / Dark)

Ruling Planet: Saturn

Energy: A rare rudraksha seed. The number 14 is best represented as 2 x 7. The number 7 being a mystical and spiritually significant number in itself, 2 x 7 denotes the 2 levels of spirituality. This feature of the number 14 associates it to the 3rd eye (Ajna Chakra), to see beyond the current paradigm (behind the scene). It assist the wearer to look at the current situation from a top down and complete view (via the 3rd eye chakra, raising one's consciousness to a higher level) and hence assisting one to make better and more informed decisions. Its ruler, the planet Saturn is also known as the 'Lord of Karma', which is also the ruler of the number 7. Hence 2 x 7 is also applicable here as it brings forth karmic patterns and their corresponding results along with an elevated understanding of how to unlock the vicious cycle of karma by pointing at the 'right thing to do'. Practically this seed can be used by people who'd like to see behind the scenes to rectify past mistakes and chart a correct course for 'true north'.

Fifteen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with fifteen lines generally 24 degrees apart.

Chakra: Vishuddha (Throat)

Element: Ether

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: The energy of the number 15 can be best described by adding a series of 4, 5 & 6. Combine the energies of rudraksha seeds with 4, 5 & 6 facets and we get the energy signature of this seed. 4 faceted rudraksha, a seed of illumination and wisdom brings enhances memory retention, understanding new concepts, efficiency of assimilating new knowledge, greater concentration and mental endurance. 5 Faceted rudraksha is the perfect all-rounder, a versatile amplifier of energies. 6 Faceted rudraksha bestows immense power and enhances the wearer's delivery (speech or action). Now, synthesize these energies and one has an understanding of the energy signature of this 15 faceted rudraksha seed. Another significance of the number 15 comes from the 15th card in the tarot deck, 'the devil'. If one looks past the dogmatic creation of the evil overlord (the evil we should be concerned with is the evil within which lacks balance and overdoes what it likes) and looks in the same card a man and a woman chained loosely with metal chains that if they wanted to, they can remove and get free of the evil within. This rudraksha with its combined powers of 4, 5 & 6 gives the wearer an illumined understanding of one's current standing and cause of grief (self not exercising restraint where needed) and grants one with enough will power and courage to 'do the right thing'.

Sixteen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with sixteen lines generally 22.5 degrees apart.

Chakra: Swadhisthana (Navel)

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: A rare rudraksha seed. The energy of the number 16 can be explained when broken down into two numbers that form it, 9 + 7 = 16. The addition of the master number 9 (king of numbers) and the occultly significant mystical number 7 yields this sum of 16 which makes it victorious and masterful on the spiritual path. It is due to this attribute that this rudraksha seed is also known as 'Jai (Victory) Rudraksha'. In the east, this seed is said to carry the victorious energies of Lord Rama, the one who conquered the evil by following the path of righteousness. This seed is also said to resonate with the 'Maha Mrityungjaya Mantra', the mantra of Lord Shiva which brings about the conquering of the fear of death and transmutation. Practically this seed can be of great use to people facing critical and terminal health issues, as long as they fight the good fight, like the righteous fight of Lord Rama.

Seventeen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with seventeen lines generally 21 degrees apart.

Chakra: N/A

Element: N/A

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: The number 17, broken down (1 + 7 = 8) yields the the number 8, the number of karma. Alternatively, 9 + 8 = 17 wherein, 9 represents mastery over the karma as depicted by the number 8. This marks the essence of this number as it possesses the ability to conquer over karmic ties and promises to elevate one's consciousness free of karma baggages weighing it down. The number 17 marks the result of one's battle with one's lower self which is the holder of karma and refuses to change. In the east, this seed is associated with a specific form of the goddess Durga (known as Katyayani) who is known to bestow gifts in 4 primary spheres of life, 'dharma' (duty of maintaining the cosmic order), 'artha' (meaning), 'kama' (passion) and 'moksha' (enlightenment). This seed is best known from a practical stand point to be the seed which attracts material gains (one's associated with the desire principle), but the scales of karma have to be understood, balanced and conquered.

Eighteen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with eighteen lines generally 20 degrees apart.

Chakra: Mooladhara (Base)

Element: Earth

Ruling Planet: The Earth

Energy: A very rare rudraksha seed. A double of the master number 9, this seed with 18 facets is a seed of mastery. Its ruler being our very planet Earth, makes this seed adept at mastering physical hardships, especially of the mothering and nurturing kinds. It is especially beneficial for women who have had issues conceiving or are prone to abortions. It is also called 'Bhumi' (Earth) rudraksha in the east for this very reason. This seed is also great for people who have 'Earthy' jobs, gardening, landscaping, mining, builders, masons, property dealers, gemologists etc.

Nineteen Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with nineteen lines generally 19 degrees apart.

Chakra: Ajna (3rd Eye)

Element: Ether (Light / Dark)

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: 19 represents new beginnings post the completing of a whole cycle of experience (1 + 9 = 10 = 1). This marks the amalgamation of all that is learnt in the past cycle, the good, the bad, the ugly, and still facing what's in store next with earnest openness (as compared to a child like innocence of the number 1). This seed therefore brings about a better understanding and grip over one's strengths and weaknesses, makes the person more wise and confident to face the new unknown cycle. On a practical note, this seed makes an excellent tool for people beginning a new journey in life, people looking to move onto a new phase in life or people simply looking to travel and gain a new experience.

Twenty Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with twenty lines generally 18 degrees apart.

Chakra: N/A

Element: N/A

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: 20 is 2 x 10 (the number of completion), as such the number 20 also carries the same energetic pattern marking completion of a life cycle. This number also signals at rebirth or new beginnings, with a synthesized understanding of all that was learnt in the previous life cycle. In the east this rudraksha seed is known to be ruled by a collective consciousness, one that is made of the holy trinity, the nine planets and the eight directions (3 + 9 + 8 = 20). As such this points at the collective energy which lies latent in this seed, awaiting to be discovered and leveraged by one who is marking a new beginning. This seed aids one who's looking to achieve 'at-one-ment' with the divine.

Twenty One Mukhi / Lines

Physical Attributes: Oval sphere (ellipsoid) shaped with twenty one lines generally 17 degrees apart.

Chakra: Ajna (3rd Eye)

Element: Ether (Light / Dark)

Ruling Planet: N/A

Energy: 21 marks the symbol of perfection by excellence (2 + 1 = 3) and (3 x 7 = 21). Just as the 7 faceted rudraksha seed resonated to the alchemy of the universal pattern of 7, which aided it to correctly navigate past its ruler Saturn's ring pass not (represented by Saturn's belt) by working in harmony as per the divine plan. 21 is thrice harmonized which reflects to one's perfection of the 3 lower bodies (physical, emotional and mental). Once all 3 lower bodies are harmonized as per the divine plan, the soul energy streams through unhindered, resulting in unimaginable feats of manifestation. This seed also resonates with the ability to manifest in the 3 lower realms (physical, emotional and mental) making it one of the most sought after rudraksha seeds.

Instagram