The meaning of Namaste is universal, even though you may notice there are many variations on the theme. One yoga instructor may say it at the end of class, while another may use it as a greeting when you walk into the studio. In some cultures, it is customary to say "Namaste" when you first greet someone and again when you part company.
To Express Namaste

In Sanskrit, Nama means "bow", as means "I", and te means "you." It's pronounced "NAH-mah-stay." More literally translated, Namaste means, "I bow to the divine in you." This is an expression of respect. When we make a connection between others, it brings us closer to uniting with the universe. We are no longer two separate individuals, but two beings joined in spirit. Famed instructor Rodney Yee expands upon the meaning of Namaste in this brief video from Gaiam.

People traditionally express the greeting of Namaste with the palms together at the heart. Others will bring closed palms to the third eye, then bow their heads as they extend the gesture to the heart. It's not always necessary to say "Namaste" when you make the gesture, as the purpose is implied.

Various Meanings of Namaste

Here are some of the various definitions of Namaste you may encounter. All are correct as long as they are expressed fully from the mind, body, and spirit:

"The light that shines within me also shines within you."
"I bow to you."
"The entire universe resides within you."
"I honor the place in you which is of love, truth, light, and peace."
"I recognize that we are all equal."
"I behold God within you."
"Your spirit and my spirit are one. "
"I salute the light of God in you."
"I recognize that within each of us is a place where divinity dwells, and when we are in that place, we are one."
Other Ways Namaste Is Used

While the origin of Namaste is Hindu, it is embraced by many other cultures and religions. Sikhs use it as an acknowledgement of the creator of all religions. In Sri Lanka, the gesture is known as aayushman, and it is a popular greeting in many different settings. Sindhi Muslims in Pakistan also use Namaste occasionally. In Thaliand, the expression is known as wai, and it is a gesture of respect to people of authority.

This passionate benediction from Pastor Eddie D. Smith, Jr. demonstrates how powerful the meaning of Namaste can be when you put real purpose behind it.

Inspirational speaker Lance Secretan explains in this video how and why his organization uses the expression.