Namaste

A Greeting of Respect

"Namaste" (pronounced nah-mah-stay) is a Sanskrit word that translates to "I bow to you". Widely used in Indian culture, as well as in Buddhist and Hindu belief systems, Namaste is more than just a word: it's a profound gesture serving as a greeting.

When we greet someone with Namaste, we recognize our shared humanity and acknowledge the dignity within each of us. This simple gesture is particularly profound in the sense that it transcends all boundaries and highlights the other person's inherent worth regardless of their social status, race, or language. Namaste teaches us that every greeting is an opportunity to acknowledge the worth and dignity in others

Performing the Namaste Gesture

To perform the Namaste gesture, place your hands together in front of your heart, make soft eye contact with the other person and bow your head slightly.

If someone says Namaste to you, it's polite to reciprocate the gesture.

This greeting acknowledges the shared humanity between you and the other person.

Namaste Beyond Borders

Though Namaste originates from India, you can bring the qualities of this greeting wherever you are on Earth and whichever language you speak. Whether you say hi, bonjour, buenos dias, or 你好, you can remind yourself of the essence of Namaste every time you greet someone and honor the humanity of that person.

At A Home for Humanity, we believe that if we consciously bring these values into our everyday interactions, we can create deeper connections and contribute to a more meaningful & peaceful world.

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