What is Namaste?

Namaste is a word that represents respect and connection with all beings. In this sense, the meaning varies depending on how the mudra or hand position is done, and it can also mean union with the whole.

Namaste became known worldwide, since it is widely used in practices such as yoga and meditation. In addition, this word contains several spiritual teachings, being about the path of self-knowledge, understanding reality, acceptance, peace of mind and balance.

To learn more about the expression Namastê, its origin, history, meaning, symbol and more, continue reading this article!

Origin of Namastê

The word Namaste, in Sanskrit, is the union of words. Thus, the meanings together result in an important and respectful greeting. Understand below the etymology of the word Namaste, the history of this term, among other information.

Etymology

In the etymology of the word, Namaste, in Sanskrit, means "I greet you", because "nama" means to revere, salute, prostrate or bow, while "tê" means you. Thus, it is a way to greet another person.

However, it can also contain several other meanings, aimed at humility and connection between beings. In this way, this greeting is linked to overcoming the ego barrier, connecting with the truth within oneself and being able to understand others.

History

Historically, the word "Namaste" originated from South Asian culture, and can also be found as namaskar, containing the same meaning. However, in some traditions among yogis, namaste is used to greet the divine, while namaskar is used to greet the divine existence present in each person.

Moreover, this word, coupled with the hand position, indicates deep respect, acknowledging the other as an important part of creation. In some parts of India this greeting is used to revere only Hindus, however, in other regions it is used to greet anyone.

Spiritual teaching of Namaste

Greeting with Namaste is much more than a simple greeting, as it brings spiritual teachings, such as the connection between people. In Sanskrit, this word brings philosophical and spiritual conceptions around the reduction of ego and connection between beings.

In this sense, "nama" is used to refer to another being or to the divine, thus respecting the individuality of each person, in deep respect and acceptance of the existing reality. Therefore, it is linked to the reduction of the ego, without wanting to place oneself above anything.

In view of this, it is related to recognizing the divine spark in ourselves and in others. Thus, there is a belief that namaste means "the God who dwells in me greets the God who dwells in you.

Uses of the word Namaste

The mudras are hand positions that accompany the Namaste greeting, and its symbol represents different states of consciousness on the path to self-knowledge. Check below information about uses of the word Namaste, gestures, greetings, among other topics.

Gesture

Namaste is used as a gesture of showing respect, joining the word to the mudra, and with the hands in front of the chest, near the heart chakra. This is done as an act of prayer and connection with all that exists.

The hands can also be joined where the third eye is located to revere God, the divine, holiness. In addition, it is often used in meditation and yoga to unify energies, providing connection and balance. For the yogis, the center of the body is the heart, and it is through it that harmony is achieved.

Compliance

It is common to use Namaste as a greeting in South Asia, bringing the meaning of "I salute you". It is a gesture of education, connection between people, respect and gratitude, symbolizing that all beings are united and share the same essence.

In some places in India, this greeting is used to greet anyone. In this way, the word namaste is used to initiate communication, as well as the hand gesture as a representation of respect.

Namaste Symbol

The symbol of Namaste is the same as om, which represents the states of consciousness of a person along the path of self-knowledge. There is a belief that "om" was the first existing sound in the world.

The symbol of the om symbolizes creation, constancy and transformation. In this way, it is related to directing attention towards inner transformation, detaching oneself from attachment and finding happiness. However, this task is not easy at all, it requires constancy of spiritual practices, as well as courage to distance oneself from daily illusions.

In addition, there is the interpretation that the upper curve of the symbol signifies the state of deep dreaming, with the non-existence of desires and dreams, while the middle curve symbolizes the dream state, the moment of turning inward, and the lower curve is related to full attention, reaching a high state of consciousness.

In addition, the semicircle symbolizes illusion and the dot represents full awareness of existence. Illusion prevents the being from finding connection with the divine, happiness and balance.

Namaste in the West

Over time, Namaste spread to the West, gaining many followers in spiritual practices such as yoga and meditation. With this, it became a popular word and its symbol is one of the best known throughout the world. Learn more below.

In the global culture

The South Asian culture was spread all over the world, and thus many people adhered to Namaste in various ways: as a greeting, in meditation practices, in yoga, and even in representations of objects such as clothes and accessories.

It is common to see this culture present in large urban centers, however, with globalization, information and cultures have been disseminated everywhere. Generally, Namaste is adopted by people who respect nature and perform constant practices of self-knowledge.

Namaste in yoga

In yoga, Namastê is a greeting that can be done either at the beginning of the practices or at the end. However, it is more common to see it only at the end, as it is believed to be the ideal moment to unify the energies, but it is not a rule.

This greeting is done to revere the other, accepting their particularities. In this way, it is a very beautiful gesture, representing the understanding of the nature existing in oneself, in the other, and in everything.

Why use Namaste?

Namaste can be used in many ways, but it always symbolizes connection and respect. Therefore, using it is fundamental to cultivate attention, education and lovingness, always remembering the union between body and spirit, as well as the natural cycle of life.

In addition, through this gesture, it is possible to remember what is really important, distancing oneself from illusions and understanding the connection with other beings, without aversion and without judgment. Use this article to better understand the meaning of Namaste, putting the information into practice with awareness.