August 11, 2023
Our master Swami Sivananda prescribed an immediate solution to the problems that were brought to Him. Whatever was the problem and whoever faced it, He invariably prescribed the Japa of a Mantra. When this was done, the appropriate remedies for the particular problem "appeared". The devotee knew that it was Gurudev's miracle. The Master Himself gently remarked, "It is due to God's Grace."
What is it in the Mantra that makes this possible? What is a Mantra? Specifically, a Mantra is a "mystic formula". It can be the Name of God, a piece of wholesome life-transforming advice, or a word of power, with which the master's spiritual energy is transmitted to the disciple and the latter's energy is activated. The latter is known as Shakti-pata.
Shakti-pata is greatly emphasized in the teachings of Baba Muktananda Paramahamsa. Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi in his "Talks With Ramana Maharshi" has alluded to it. Hei has said that when the disciple listens to the Master with the heart (while the intellect is utterly silent) Shakti-pata takes place. This is the "initiation".
From Insights & Inspirations (Venkatesa Daily Readings Vol 2)