the Hare Krishna’s are right?
Arthur Pendragon
Feeling: Enlightened 🕉️
Just had a fascinating discussion about some Sanskrit words that have found their way into common use, especially in the world of yoga and meditation. Since I know a lot of you use them, I wanted to share what they really mean!
Namaste (नमस्ते)
- Literal Meaning: “I bow to you.” It’s a combination of the Sanskrit words namah (bow, obeisance, salutation) and te (to you).
- Deeper Spiritual Meaning: This is the beautiful part often referenced in yoga. It reflects the belief that there is a divine spark or soul (Atman) within each of us. The full sentiment is often translated as: “The divine light in me honors the divine light in you.”
- Cultural Usage: In India and Nepal, it is primarily used as a respectful greeting (like “hello” or “good day”), often accompanied by the Anjali Mudra (hands pressed together at the heart).
Shanti (शान्ति)
- Meaning: “Peace,” “tranquility,” or “calmness.”
- Common Use: You often hear this chanted as “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti” to conclude prayers, Hindu ceremonies, and yoga practices.
- Why it’s repeated three times: The triple repetition is an invocation for peace at three different levels:
- Peace of the Body, Mind, and Spirit.
- Peace from natural calamities (like earthquakes, storms).
- Peace from other living beings (like friends, enemies, animals).
So, the next time you say Namaste, remember you’re acknowledging the sacredness in the other person! And when you hear Shanti, you’re being blessed with threefold peace.
#Sanskrit #Yoga #Namaste #Shanti #Mindfulness #LearnSomethingNew #Peace