Meaning of Namasté

Namasté or Namaskar is a spoken greeting originating in the Indian subcontinent. Namaskar is considered a slightly more formal version than Namaste but both express deep respect. It is used in India and Nepal by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. The phrase literally means "I bow to you," and it can be accompanied by a bow with the hands held together in a praying gesture at chest level or higher. Although it may be commonly used as a friendly greeting, it symbolizes the recognition of the divine within both parties.