Shakti

In Hinduism, Shakti is an aspect of Devi, and a personification of God as the Divine Mother who represents the active, dynamic principles of feminine power. In some groups known as "Shaktism", Shakti is worshiped as the Supreme Being. Alternatively, in other Hindu traditions, Shakti represents the power of God, called Vishnu or Shiva. For Vaishnavites, God's power or Shakti is Lakshmi. For Shaivites, God's power is Parvati.

Etymology

Traditionally, the word Shakti is used in a variety of ways ranging from its use as a way of signifying the ultimate primordial creative power, to expressing the capacity or power of words to convey meaning. Etymologically it is derived from the root 'shak,' meaning potency or the potential to produce, an assertion of Her inherent creative aptitude. All interpretations of the word 'shakti' hold common one parameter, namely Power. Specifically, Shakti means feminine energy.

Used as a noun the word 'shakti' can also mean a female consort or a weapon, depending on context. Shakti represents the fundamental creative instinct underlying the cosmos, and is the energizing force of all divinity, of every being and every thing. Devotees believe the whole universe to be a manifestation of Shakti, who is also known by her general name Devi, which like our word "divine", is from the Sanskrit root 'div' which means 'to shine.'

Mythology

In the non-BK Brahmin scripture 'Devi Mahatmyam', Mahamaya or Great Maya is said to cover Vishnu's eyes in Yoganidra, or Divine Sleep, during cycles of existence when all is resolved into One. By exhorting Mahamaya to release Her illusory hold on Vishnu, Brahma is able to bring Vishnu to aid him in killing two demons, Madhu and Kaitabh, who have manifested from Vishnu's sleeping form.

BKWSU usage

In the BKWSU, the traditional associations are drawn up on but the word Shakti is also used for dedicated female followers. The BKs sisters are often called Shaktis or Shiv Shaktis by way of encouragement or recognition and on badges.

The Shakti goddesses are also known as 'mothers', as the BK Shiv Shaktis are on the Brahma Kumaris' path. There are many temples devoted to various incarnations of the Shakti goddesses in India and BK followers are told that these are monuments or memorials to themselves. Further that in the future, the BK practioners that are worshipped in these temples will be recognised by their devotees. It is believe that [ non-BK ] Shaktis are the protectors of the village, the punishers of evil people, the curer of diseases, and the one who gives welfare to the village and are celebrated each year.

Indeed, it is said that some Senior Sisters have already been recognised as such.

• Literally = power. The power within female deities. Also refers to female Raja Yogis. As they are seen as more powerful.