The Definition of Namaste
Namaste is usually accompanied by a hand gesture and a gentle bow of the head. But what does it really mean?
Nama means bow, as means I, and te means you. Therefore, Namaste literally means “I bow to you”. However, the energy behind the word and the gesture displays deep respect.
The word has its origins in the East it is globally accepted as a respectful greeting and a thank you. When it is said the hands join in a prayer position also known Anjali Mudra at the heart centre and the head is gently bowed.
To display a deep level of respect Namaste is often said after the hands join at the third eye in Anjali Mudra, as the hands move down to the heart centre the head bows and the word is spoken.
Namaste also represents the belief that there is a divine spark within each of us, when said with the gesture we are acknowledging that divine spark in others.
In Western cultures the word “Namaste” is usually spoken in conjunction with the gesture, in the East, just the gesture itself signifies Namaste, and therefore, the word is not always spoken.
Namaste’s meaning is universally recognized as one of peace, honour, and respect.
Here are few popular translations and meanings for the word Namaste:
The Divine light in me acknowledges the Divine light in you.
The God in me greets and meets the God in you.
I honour the spirit in you that is also in me.
The Diving wisdom in me recognizes and acknowledges the Divine wisdom in you.
Regardless of language the word Namaste brings a real sense of sharing a spiritual connection and creates a feeling of oneness and balance. It is a beautiful way to connect with other human beings.
This blog article was written by Sue Fuller creator of the Yoga 2 Hear range of audio yoga classes and yoga teacher training courses.
