What is the meaning and the benefits of 'Namaskar'?

There are various ways in which one can do Namaskar. The various mudras or positions and methods along with the intention with which one must do each form of Namaskar are discussed and explained in this series.

Origin and the meaning of the word 'Namaskar'

The word 'Namaskar' is derived from the root 'namaha', which means paying obeisance (Namaskar) or salutation.

From Science of Justice - 'Namaha' is a physical action expressing that 'you are superior to me in all qualities and in every way'.

The main objective of doing Namaskar to someone is to derive spiritual as well as worldly benefits.

Worldly Benefits

By doing Namaskar to a deity or a Saint, unknowingly their virtues and capabilities are impressed upon our minds. Consequently we start emulating them, thus changing ourselves for the better.

Spiritual Benefits

Increase in humility and reduction of ego

While doing Namaskar, when one thinks, 'You are superior to me; I am the subordinate. I do not know anything, you are omniscient', only then does it help in reducing the ego and increasing humility.

Enhancement in the spiritual emotion of surrender and gratitude

While doing Namaskar when thoughts like 'I do not know anything', 'You alone get everything done', 'Grant me a place at Your Holy Feet' come to mind, only then does it help in increasing the spiritual emotion of surrender and gratitude.

Gaining the Sattva component and faster spiritual progress

a. We receive the highest amount of Sattva component from the posture (mudra) of Namaskar.
b. By doing Namaskar) to Deities or Saints we receive subtle frequencies emitted by them, e.g. frequencies of Sattva or Bliss.
c. By doing Namaskar to Deities or Saints we also receive their blessings in a subtle form. This helps in hastening spiritual progress.