Namaste: A Greeting with Deep Spiritual Significance

If you have ever attended a yoga class, you are likely familiar with the word Namaste. It is the traditional way to end a practice, usually accompanied by a bow. But do you truly know the meaning of Namaste?

Many people in the West view Namaste as a respectful Indian greeting—a yoga version of "hello" or "goodbye." However, it is one of the six forms of Pranama (reverential bowing) in Hindu tradition, imbued with spiritual depth that can enhance your yoga practice.

Next, let’s look at the literal translation, spiritual meaning, and proper use of this gesture.

What Does Namaste Literally Mean?

To understand the meaning, look at the Sanskrit roots. Namaste combines two words:

• Namas: "bow," "salutation," or "adoration."
• Te: Meaning "to you."

Therefore, the literal translation of Namaste is: "I bow to you."

Grammatically, the 's' between the two words is a "sandhi" (a connection rule in Sanskrit) that joins Nama and Te. It is a sign of obedience, submission, and deep respect between two people.

The Spiritual Meaning: "The Light in Me Honors the Light in You"

The literal translation is simple, but the spiritual interpretation is profound. In yoga philosophy and Hinduism, the gesture recognizes the soul.

The most common spiritual definition of Namaste is:

"The light within me bows to the light within you."

Or alternatively: "I bow to the divine in you."

When you perform the Namaste salutation, you acknowledge a divine spark in every person, recognizing the sacredness in both yourself and the individual you greet.

'Nama' can also mean Na (not) and Ma (mine), signifying "not mine." Namaste thus can represent letting go of ego and connecting soul to soul.

Namaste vs. Namaskar: What is the Difference?

Moving on, you might wonder how Namaste differs from Namaskar. You may have also heard the term Namaskar or Namaskara. Are they the same thing? Almost, but there is a subtle difference in usage.

• Namaste is typically used to greet a single individual (Te = to you, singular).
• Namaskar derives from Namas and Kara (doing/action). It serves as a general greeting.

Ideally, Namaskar is used to salute a group, whereas Namaste is more intimate and appropriate for one-on-one greetings. However, in modern usage, especially in the West, the terms are often used interchangeably.

The Ancient Origins

The gesture is ancient. Namaste appears in many classical Hindu scriptures, including the Rigveda (8.75.10), the Atharvaveda (verse 6.13.2), and the Taittiriya Samhita.

While the exact origin is unknown, it has been practiced for thousands of years in the Indian subcontinent. The gesture appears in statues, carvings, and temple sculptures of deities across India, Nepal, and Thailand.

Why Do We Say Namaste in Yoga?

So why has Namaste become so central to yoga practice, especially at the end of class?

In yoga, Namaste commonly closes class. The teacher initiates as a sign of gratitude to students and her teachers. Students respond, thanking the teacher and connecting with each other.

It serves as a way to seal the practice and carry mindfulness from the yoga mat into daily life.

How to Perform Namaste Correctly

To embrace Namaste’s meaning, perform the gesture (mudra) with intention. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Hand Placement: Join your palms in Anjali Mudra (prayer position). Touch your palms to your heart chakra (center of the chest) to signify the greeting’s heartfelt nature.
2. The Bow: Gently close your eyes and bow your head slightly toward your fingertips.
3. Pronunciation: Say nuh-mUH-st-hey, emphasizing the second syllable.
4. Connection: Brief eye contact before bowing shows sincerity and deepens the bond.

5 Things to Remember

• Namaste isn’t just for yoga; it can be said to anyone, including children, friends, and family.
• Namaste looks past the physical: It recognizes the divine within a person, beyond appearance or status.
• Ego check: a reminder that we are all equal, sharing the same divine light.
• Inner Peace: Saying Namaste fosters calm, gratitude, and kindness toward others.
• Don't over-bow: A small nod is enough; no need to bend from the waist.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Is saying Namaste religious? While it has roots in Hinduism, in modern yoga it is generally treated as a spiritual or cultural gesture rather than a strictly religious one. It is a universal sign of respect.

Can I say Namaste at the beginning of class? Yes. In India, it means both 'hello' and 'goodbye'. In Western yoga studios, however, it is typically reserved for the end of practice to seal the energy.

What to do if the teacher says Namaste? Just bring your hands to your heart, bow your head, and repeat "Namaste."

Take Namaste Off the Mat

Namaste is more than a word; it is a philosophy. Regardless of whether you view it as "I bow to you" or "The light in me honors the light in you," the intention remains the same: Respect, Unity, and Connection.

By living Namaste, you improve your relationships with friends, family, and strangers.

Ready to deepen your practice? With a new understanding, put Namaste into action. Explore our online classes to find your perfect flow.

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