Why Do We Say Namaskar?

Namaste or Namaskar has been an integral part of Indian heritage, serving as a respectful greeting in Indian culture. It is often used to greet others, worship the Almighty, and even when bidding farewell to guests. Namaskar means, "I bow down to the divinity within you." It is a way of acknowledging that the source of creation exists within everything we see. Through this gesture, we express gratitude and respect to both the creation and the Creator.

Namaskar: More than Just a Greeting

Namaskar is not just a cultural practice; it holds a deeper significance. The act of Namaskar transcends the human tendency to quickly judge others. Our intellect often assesses people or situations based on past experiences, leading to subconscious judgments like, "this is beautiful" or "that is not good." These snap judgments may not reflect the truth, and they hinder us from seeing someone or something as they truly are in the moment.

The science of Namaskar helps us overcome these limitations. By bowing down and acknowledging the source of creation in others, our likes and dislikes become irrelevant. This spiritual intention behind Namaskar allows us to perceive others with openness and without judgment.

How to Do Namaskar?

There are different forms of Namaskar for different occasions, though the core act and intention remain the same. The position of the joined palms varies based on the purpose, with palms held at corresponding chakras to activate emotions of love, gratitude, and receptivity.

1. Namaskar for Greeting

   • Join your palms and bring them close to the middle of your chest, near the heart chakra.
   • Bow your head and say "Namaskar," "Namaste," or "Namaskaram."

2. Namaskar for Guru Dheeksha

   • As per Yogic tradition, place the palms together near the third eye region on the forehead. This activates the third eye chakra (between the eyebrows).
   • When bowing the head, keep the eyes closed to focus on receiving energy or blessings.
   • This form is used to show respect and gratitude to Gurus, saints, or spiritual teachers.

3. Namaskar for Worship

   • According to Vedic texts, when worshipping God, the palms are raised and held over the head to activate the Sahasrara (crown) chakra, which connects humans with the divine.
   • Bow your head with eyes closed to receive blessings.
   • This is commonly done both in temples and in homes.

Namaskar as a Yoga

Namaskar also has a yogic aspect. The palms contain many nerve endings, which carry sensory impulses to the brain. The entire practice of mudras (hand gestures) in yoga is based on this principle. By holding the hands in certain positions, one can alter the way the body functions. When the palms are placed together, a sense of oneness is established, balancing emotions, dualities, and personal preferences.

In this state, we begin to function as one unified divine energy. This is why in Indian culture, we are taught to bow down to everything—earth, sky, birds, animals, and fellow humans. Namaskar reminds us that the Divine Creator resides within all of us.