What does Namaste mean? – Know this Hindu greeting

We currently live in a very diverse world. Each country has different languages, cultures, religions, celebrations, customs, values ​​and when speaking the terms and greetings vary. In this article we will analyze one of the well-known greetings, namaste. We will also talk about the practice of Reiki and the use of this greeting in said therapy. We will also see what namaste means.

What does Namaste mean?

Namasté has the meaning I bow to you or you or I revere you. But depending on the province or locality in India that you know or find yourself in, you will hear: Namaskaram, Namaskar or Namaskaara. It is a more formal way of greeting but they have the same meaning and use.

For many people it could be a simple greeting but the truth is that it is not because this word has many other meanings. Keeping in mind that it represents the well-known philosophy about life in search of recognition and honor or exalt what we are.

1. 'The divine that is in me, say hello to what is divine in you': In Hinduism there is a belief that there is a "divine spark" that is found in the heart of all people. This greeting is like saying “the highest energy in me greets the highest energy in you”.
2. The light that is in you acknowledges and greets the light that is in me: This pronunciation is somewhat similar to the previous one, it also has a similar meaning because it is spiritual. Literally it is a form of acceptance from the innermost from the light soul known as atman, which represents the divine essence that is present in us.
3. My spirit and yours are one: Continuing with the spiritual meaning, there is a slightly deeper meaning as it symbolizes or interprets the connection that we all have and form part of the universe, it is like saying "what makes me happy also makes you happy" or "what It affects me, too." That we are all united.
4. I express my gratitude and respect from the bottom of my heart: This is one of the meanings that you may know more about in yoga. This meaning is less spiritual, it is more a way of expressing gratitude. And it is not thanking the teacher of the class, but also thanking the effort that your body makes, thanking for the people close to you, or thanking for the moment you had of relaxation.
5. nothing of mine: Usually used in yoga classes, this alludes to the importance of putting aside the ego manifesting a humble attitude.

Etymology of Namaste.

Namaste comes from Sanskrit, this language is native to the northern part of India, the word is combined NAMAS which has the meaning of courtesy, adoration or reverence, TE personal pronoun that refers to you or you.

And this term that comes from Sanskrit is known as NAMASTE, its writing in Devanagari is नम_ते.

Origin of Namaste.

Now that we know what namaste means, let's talk about its origin. This is a very common greeting in Asia. This greeting comes from the Hindu and is used throughout India, more frequently in the north.

Its origin since ancient times, descends from the ancient Hindu culture well known for being used in several languages. As mentioned before, Sanskrit is one of the languages ​​spoken in India, said language is considered sacred within this culture.

In some parts of Asia in its southern part, the synonym Namaskar is used, mostly in Nepal to refer to the elderly.

When is Namaste said?

It is used at the beginning and at the end of a conversation, it also fulfills the function of expressing a greeting or farewell, this greeting is used by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists. The latter are the ones who most frequently use this type of greeting to approach a superior or authoritative person.

What to respond when they say Namaste to me?

As we have analyzed in this article, namaste is a way to greet, request, show your respect or adoration, pray and to say goodbye. It is normal that when greeted, people bow their heads together with the palms of their hands extended. This is a position that is known for prayer.

Or you can answer the greeting in the following way: "Sukhino Bhava" which in Spanish means "I wish for you happiness or be happy"

You should also keep in mind that it is very common in India to greet using only a mudra without mentioning the word namaste. Well, it is believed that it is included just by making the sacred gesture.

What does Namaste Reiki mean?

Those who are soaked in Reiki, which is well known for the benefits obtained physically and mentally.

It is very common to hear the word namaste in moments of meditation and relaxation. They are often used as an aromatherapy environment and relaxing music. Although this word originates from the Hindu culture, it is linked to the spiritual world, regardless of nationality, this word is used which means: The divine that is in me greets what is divine in you.

The teacher places his hands on various and different parts of the body. What are known as energetic points that are linked to the chakras.