Definition - What does Shaktipat mean?
Shaktipat is a Sanskrit term referring to the process of transmitting spiritual energy from one person to another.
This energy can be transmitted in a number of ways: by touch, through a mantra, with a look, through a sacred word or by thought. It is also said that it can be transmitted over distance through an object.
Practicing yoga extensively with a mentor can result in shaktipat.
Yogapedia explains Shaktipat
Shaktipat is viewed as an act of grace provided by a guru or divine being to someone else. It is divided into a number of different levels, according to the intensity of the transfer and where the recipient is on the path to liberation. The highest intensity is tivra-tivra-shaktipat, which translates to “super supreme grace."
Shaktipat can generally only be received after a long period of discipline and spiritual questioning. The disciple must be ready in order to receive it, so the giver must remove the intangible obstacles in their path toward enlightenment.
When practicing yoga with a mentor for spiritual purposes, it is possible that the teacher may engage in shakti-pata at a very advanced stage of instruction in order to deepen the student's progress and understanding.