Shakta
Origins and History
Shakta (Sanskrit: शाक्त) refers to a tradition of Hinduism where the metaphysical reality is considered feminine and the Devi (goddess) is supreme. The term Shakta is derived from the Sanskrit word "Shakti," which translates to "power" or "energy." Shakti is the concept, or personification, of divine feminine creative power, sometimes referred to as 'The Great Divine Mother' in Hinduism. As a tradition, Shakta has a rich and complex history that is intertwined with the broader context of Hindu philosophy, mythology, and culture.
The origins of the Shakta tradition can be traced back to the pre-Vedic period, with archaeological evidence suggesting the worship of a mother goddess figure dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. The Rigveda, one of the four canonical sacred texts (Vedas) of Hinduism, contains hymns dedicated to various female deities such as Ushas, Prithvi, and Aditi. However, the Shakta tradition in its current form is believed to have evolved during the late medieval period, with the composition of texts such as the Devi Mahatmya, which glorifies the goddess as the ultimate reality.
Beliefs and Practices
Central to Shakta belief is the idea that Shakti is the source of all creation, sustenance, and destruction. Shaktas worship the goddess in various forms, including the fierce forms of Kali and Durga, as well as the more benevolent forms of Lakshmi and Saraswati. The choice of deity and the mode of worship can vary widely among Shakta devotees, reflecting the diversity within the tradition.
Shakta practices include prayer, ritualistic offerings, meditation, yoga, and the recitation of sacred texts. Some Shaktas also engage in Tantra, a set of esoteric practices that seek to channel divine energy. Tantra in the Shakta tradition is often misunderstood and misrepresented, but it is essentially a path to spiritual liberation through the awakening of the Kundalini, a form of Shakti believed to reside within the human body.
Shakta Literature
Shakta literature is vast and varied, comprising ancient scriptures, medieval texts, and modern writings. The Devi Bhagavata Purana and the Devi Mahatmya are among the most important Shakta texts, both of which extol the greatness of the goddess. The Lalita Sahasranama, a text from the Brahmanda Purana, is a devotional hymn to the goddess Lalita, and is widely chanted by Shaktas. Shakta Tantras, such as the Rudra Yamala and the Kularnava Tantra, provide detailed instructions for ritual and meditative practices.
Influence and Impact
The Shakta tradition has had a profound influence on Indian culture and society. The worship of the goddess in various forms is a common feature of Hindu religious life, particularly during festivals such as Navaratri and Durga Puja. The Shakta tradition has also contributed to the development of Indian art, music, and dance, with many classical forms drawing inspiration from Shakta themes.
