Pronunciation: [ʃˈaktɪst] (IPA) 
The word "shaktist" is a term used to refer to a follower of the Shakti tradition in Hinduism. It is pronounced as /ˈʃæk.tɪst/ and is spelled with a "sh" sound, followed by an "a" sound, then a "k" sound, and finally a "tist" sound. The "a" in "shaktist" is pronounced as a short "a" sound. In Hinduism, Shakti is the divine feminine energy and is often worshipped in various forms including Durga, Kali, and Parvati.
A shaktist is an adherent or follower of Shaktism, a major Hindu theological tradition that venerates the feminine energy or divine power, known as Shakti. The term "shaktist" originates from the Sanskrit word "Shakti," which translates to strength or power. Shaktism focuses on the worship of the divine feminine, considering it as the ultimate reality and the creative force behind the universe.
Shaktists believe that this power manifests in various goddesses, who are the principal objects of devotion and meditation. These goddesses, such as Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati, symbolize different aspects of Shakti and are revered as supreme beings. Shaktism represents a diverse range of rituals, mystical practices, and goddess-centered philosophies encompassing both monistic and dualistic perspectives.
The shaktist perspective places great emphasis on the motherly qualities of the divine, considering it as the source of unconditional love, compassion, and nurturing. Shaktist worship often involves rituals, prayers, mantra recitations, and, in some cases, ecstatic practices like dancing and chanting. The aim is to access the divine energy within oneself as a means of spiritual awakening, growth, and liberation.
Shaktists subscribe to the belief that true knowledge and self-realization can be obtained by understanding and surrendering to Shakti. The shaktist path is characterized by reverence, devotion, and respect for the feminine energy that permeates all aspects of life. The shaktist's spiritual journey revolves around embracing the dynamic interplay between the masculine and feminine energies to achieve unity, harmony, and enlightenment.
The word "shaktist" is derived from the term "Shakti", which originates from the Sanskrit language. "Shakti" refers to the divine feminine energy or power in Hinduism. It is often associated with the goddess Devi, who represents the female principle in the cosmic order. The suffix "-ist" is added to "Shakti" to indicate a person who follows, practices, or believes in Shaktism, which is a Hindu sect that worships Shakti as the Supreme Being. Therefore, a "shaktist" is someone who adheres to or identifies with Shaktism.
