Definition

Noun 1. The female or generative principle in Hindu theology; a benevolent aspect of the goddess Devi and the consort of the god Shiva: In Hinduism, Shakti (often spelled 'sakti') represents the dynamic, creative, and active energy of the divine, conceived as feminine. It is the fundamental cosmic power that brings forth, sustains, and transforms the universe.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • In this temple, they primarily worship sakti as the source of all creation.
  • The concept of sakti is central to many schools of Hindu philosophy and practice.

Advanced Usage

• Theological Context: The term is often used in discussions of Hindu metaphysics to denote the active, manifest power of the otherwise transcendent male principle (often Shiva), with the two being inseparable.
  • The union of Shiva and sakti symbolizes the integration of consciousness and energy.

Variants and Related Words

• Shakti: The more common transliteration of the Sanskrit word शक्ति.
• Devi: A general term for "goddess" in Hinduism, of which sakti is a benevolent form.
• Shaktism: The denomination of Hinduism that worships the Goddess, or Shakti, as the supreme being.

Synonyms

• Divine feminine energy
• Cosmic power
• Creative force

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Shakti/Shiva duality: Refers to the complementary pair of cosmic principles.
  • The artwork beautifully depicts the Shakti/Shiva duality.

Noun

1. the female or generative principle; wife of Siva and a benevolent form of Devi