The Meaning of Namaste: Namaste is derived from Sanskrit and is a combination of two words, "Namaḥ" and "te. " Namaḥ" means 'bow,' 'obeisance,' 'reverential salutation' or 'adoration ' and te means 'to you' (dative case of 'you') . Therefore the words namah + te = namaste literally means “I bow to you” - my greetings, salutations or prostration to you. The word ‘namaha’ can also be literally interpreted as "na ma" (not mine). It has a spiritual significance of negating or reducing one's ego in the presence of another. The meaning of Vnakkam The real meeting between 2 people is the meeting of their mind. When we greet another, we do so with Vanankkam, which means "may our minds meet", indicated by the folded palms placed before the chest. The bowing down of the head is a gracious form of extending friendship, love and humility. Why Namaste: Namaste could be ...