What is the meaning of “Shakti” ?
“Shakti” is truly the equivalent of what we call “Spirit” in the Western world.
The Sanskrit term “Shakti” also translates to “energy,” “ability,” “strength,” “effort,” “power,” “might,” and “capability” in Sanskrit. It derives from the root verb shak, meaning “to have potential” or “to be able”.
In metaphysical terms, Shakti refers to the energetic principle of reality, often associated with the creative and transformative aspects of the Divine.
Shakti is viewed as the universal power that underlies all existence. It is considered the energising force of the gods and is often depicted as the consort of male deities, particularly Shiva. The relationship between Shakti and Shiva symbolises the interplay between the active and passive principles of the universe, where Shakti represents active energy (often referred to as prakriti or nature), while Shiva embodies passive consciousness (purusha). Shakti plays a crucial role in the processes of creation, preservation, and destruction. It is often described as the active force that enables the divine to manifest in the material world.
In the Tantric philosophy, Shakti is integral to spiritual practices, emphasising the importance of the feminine divine in achieving spiritual liberation. The concept of kundalini, a form of Shakti, represents the dormant energy within individuals that can be awakened through spiritual practices
