Saktism
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Definition
Proper noun 1. Shaktism: A major tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Shakti or Devi—the Hindu Divine Mother—as the supreme, ultimate reality. It views the goddess as the dynamic, active power (Shakti) of the universe, often considered the consort of the god Shiva, through whom he becomes active. 2. Shaktism: The specific religious doctrines, rituals, and practices associated with this tradition.
Usage Notes
- Capitalization: "Shaktism" is typically capitalized as it is the name of a specific religious tradition.
- Context: The term is used in academic, religious, and cultural discussions about Hinduism. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation outside these contexts.
- Spelling: The variant spelling "Saktism" is less common but acceptable, often reflecting a direct transliteration from Sanskrit.
Examples of Usage
- As a religious tradition:
- Shaktism is one of the three primary Hindu sects, alongside Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
- The temple's rituals and iconography are deeply influenced by Shaktism.
- Referring to its beliefs:
- The core philosophy of Shaktism emphasizes the creative power of the feminine divine.
- Her academic research focuses on the history of Shaktism in South India.
Advanced Usage
- Comparative Religion: In studies comparing Hindu traditions, is noted for its tantric influences and goddess-centric theology.
- The scholar's paper contrasted the devotional practices of Vaishnavism with the tantric elements found in Shaktism.
Variants and Related Words
- Shakta (noun): An adherent or practitioner of Shaktism.
- As a Shakta, she primarily worships the goddess Kali.
- Shakti (noun): The fundamental concept in Shaktism, meaning "power" or "energy," personified as the Goddess.
- In this philosophy, Shiva is pure consciousness, while Shakti is the activating force.
Synonyms
- Shaktaism: A less common synonym for Shaktism.
- Goddess worship: A broader, descriptive term that captures the central focus of the tradition, though it is not a precise technical synonym.
Related Terms and Concepts
- Devi: A general Sanskrit term for "goddess," central to Shaktism.
- Tantra/Tantric: Refers to esoteric texts and practices, many of which are integral to certain schools within Shaktism.
- Shaivism: The Hindu tradition worshiping Shiva, with which Shaktism is closely linked, often seen as complementary.
Noun
- worship of Shakti as the wife of Shiva
- a Hindu sect worshiping Shakti