Namaste, an authentic, pure and sincere word

Namaste It is a word endowed with a message as beautiful as it is enriching. Those who practice yoga frequently will be more than used to saying this expression at the end of class.

This is a word originating from Sanskrit that enjoys great spiritual significance in Asian cultures. Although a literal translation into Spanish has not been specified, Its general meaning is a respectful greeting and a show of reverence. Let’s learn more about this beautiful word.

A very archaic origin

The origins of the word namaste They are very remote and come from Hindu culture, which encompasses a great diversity of religious practices, dialects and traditions. Numerous languages ​​are spoken in India, including Sanskrit, which is considered a sacred and almost perfect language according to linguists due to its notable phonological richness.

What’s more: The term “Sanskrit” means something like “perfectly made.” At the same time, and according to work carried out at the Jorge Tadeo Lozano University of Bogotá, many authors have defined it as “made with art, elaborated.”

Its grammar is admirable, and until not long ago it was the vehicle of expression and communication between Brahmanical religious leaders and scholars. Hindus use the word namaste as a form of greeting and farewell.

Etymological roots of the term

Let’s delve into the etymology of this ancient word. To begin with, it must be said that namaste It is a compound word. The term “namas» means “greeting” or “reverence”, and comes etymologically from «nam», which means «to prostrate» or «to bow down». For its part, the suffix “te” is a personal pronoun, quite similar to the equivalent in Spanish, which, by the way, means “to you.”

So, if we group both meanings together, we discover that namaste symbolizes “I greet you” or “I reverence you.” However, its denotation does not end here.

The spiritual meanings of Namaste

Let’s go beyond the semantic aspect of this word. To better understand its meaning we must delve into the philosophical-spiritual universe that Sanskrit possesses. Let’s see it.

“Nothing of mine”

The term “namas” can also be interpreted as “nothing of mine.” Therefore, This word would also symbolize the importance of putting aside the ego in an attitude of humility towards the other. If we make this greeting from the heart, a genuine connection is established between people. An aspect that goes beyond social expectations and masks.

“Your spirit and mine are one”

This term also represents that we are all connected and are part of the same universe. «What makes you happy makes me happy. “What affects you affects me.”

«The divine spark that is in me, recognize the divine spark that is in you»

There is another nuance of the spiritual meaning of this multifaceted word. We refer to the belief that there is a divine spark in each person.

So when the word namaste is accompanied by the mudra, we are recognizing the divine presence of oneself in the other. If we put it into words, we would say: “The divine spark in me recognizes the divine spark in you.”

On the other hand, when we pronounce the word namaste, In general we accompany it with a gesture, a “mudra.” We join the palms of our hands in the shape of a prayer and bring them to the center of the chest, right to the heart chakra. According to Buddhism, this position It allows us to rest and make our energy flow to be in harmony with the world.

Namaste and yoga

As indicated in a work published in the Káñina Magazine, among the terms sanskrits which are used in the practice of yoga, namaste It is one of the most frequently used.

In general, It is mentioned at the beginning or closing of a yoga class as an expression of respect and connection between the instructor and the students, as well as among the students themselves.

However, many instructors prefer to use this gesture at the end of class, when the mind is in a more calm state and the environment is more conducive. This occurs after having exercised the body and achieved a feeling of physical and spiritual relaxation, which makes this expression even more meaningful at that moment.

What are you waiting for to include this word in your daily life?

In this Western world where we live in a hurry, stress and anxiety, we hardly take a moment to greet the people we meet every day. Although it may seem trivial, This simple gesture can influence the way we relate to and experience life.

That said, we invite you to say hello taking into account the meaning and purpose of this word. So you can:

Improve your personal relationships by honoring and respecting others, Well, this expression implies recognizing the best in yourself and the best in the other. You begin, from the moment you greet, to treat others the way you like to be treated.Be more positive by noticing the spiritual beauty within each personsince it suggests you focus on the most beautiful and pure thing that each person you connect with offers you.Stop judging and be more compassionate. Instead of reacting negatively when you feel attacked or hurt by what someone says to you, you will begin to see everything from a higher consciousness. Maybe that person who is talking to you is suffering, afraid or sad.Be more meditative and thus contribute to creating a better world. When you enunciate this word you honor the place in the other, where the entire universe lives, where love, truth, light and peace live.

Gave namastetransform your life

From now on, dear reader, when you hear or say this word, remember that, according to this ancient culture, you will be consciously participating in the process of spiritual evolution that this very special term seeks to stimulate within you.

With its pronunciation, accompanied by its particular gesture, you will convey that Your desire is to favor a real meeting, impregnated with respect for the other person, regardless of race, age or gender, since namaste only understands from being.

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