Proper Fingers

Question:

In the video “Om Namah Shivaya”, I noticed that Maa uses the thumb and index fingers to move the mala. I have heard that index fingers are not to touch the mala. Can Swamiji please comment.

Swamiji Says:

That is the method that Shree Maa uses to worship Shiva. But the important thing is not which finger you use, but that you do the japa. So many people waste so much time debating which finger to use, that they do not perform the practices.

Narasimha, Ganesha and Lakshmi Mantras

Question:

Could Rudraksha beads be used for Narasimha mantras, and Ganesha/Lakshmi mantras?

Swamiji Says:

Yes. More traditional would be a tulasi mala, but followers of Shiva and Shakti can definitely use rudraksha.

Meat

Question:

Is it forbidden to eat meat when using Rudraksha?

Swamiji Says:

Is the question, “At the same time,” or “While wearing?”
Generally, there are vegetarians and non-vegetarians. There is nothing “Forbidden.” It is just a question of the practices one observes.
Vaishnavas forbid. Shaivites and Shaktis request us to use our discrimination.