शक्ति
Shakti
(śakti)Divine feminine energy; the primordial creative power of the universe
Full Meaning
Śakti is the divine feminine principle — not just "goddess" but the very energy of existence. Without śakti, Shiva (pure consciousness) cannot act. Śakti is the dynamic aspect of reality that creates, sustains, and destroys. Every goddess in Hindu tradition — Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati — is a manifestation of śakti.
Etymology
From the root śak (शक्) — to be able, to have power, to be capable. Śakti is power itself.
Usage in Sanskrit Texts
In Shaivism, Shiva without Shakti is inert, like a corpse. Shakti is what animates consciousness. In yoga, kundalini shakti (the coiled energy at the base of the spine) is awakened through practice and rises to merge with Shiva at the crown.
शक्तिः शिवस्य — Shakti is the power of Shiva. Without her, he cannot act.
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